Date: July 6th
Time: 12pm - 3pm
Price: $90 (includes all materials for use in class, students go home with their own prepared butterfly, a spreading board that can be used for future projects, display case for the finished piece, and the knowledge to create their own pieces in the future)
Tickets here
EXPERIENCE LEVEL-Beginner

In this beginners class, students will learn everything about basic butterfly preparation. We will discuss harvesting and drying specimen, rehydrating dried specimen, and in class we will practice handling techniques, spreading, mounting, the nuances of posing, display, and maintenance. An assortment of ethically sourced butterflies in various sizes, shapes, and colors will be provided. Students will learn how to put together and maintain their own rehydration chamber, things to check for during all stages of the process to ensure a clean and successful end product, and tips for gentle handling. Students will also build their very own spreading boards for use in class and beyond. We will also cover how to select museum quality materials for displays. Display cases for finished butterflies will be provided

As always, all specimen are ethically sourced. We will be reviewing the origins of the assorted butterflies used in class, how students can ethically and legally source specimen, and suggested, reputable suppliers. If there are any excess specimen left, they will be available for students to take home for practice and future use.

Students go home with their own prepared butterfly, a spreading board that can be used for future projects, display case for the finished piece, and the knowledge to create their own pieces in the future. It is recommended students bring a small bag or box to transport their pieces.

Divya Anantharaman is a Morbid Anatomy Museum Taxidermist in Residence and a Brooklyn based artist whose taxidermy practice was sparked by a lifelong fascination with the intersection of natural mythology and science. After a journey through self and professional training, and an inspiring class (Sue Jeiven’s popular Anthropomorphic Mouse Taxidermy Class at Observatory!), she has found her calling in creating sickly sweet and sparkly critters. A trophy winner in the 2013 Philadelphia Alt Taxidermy competition, she has been profiled in numerous publications as varied as Vice/Fringes, The NY Times, The Cut, and on hit Discovery/Science Channel TV show Oddities. She is also a member of the M.A.R.T. (Minnesota Association of Rogue Taxidermists) You can find out more at www.d-i-v-y-a.com

Also, some technical notes:

• We use NO harsh or dangerous chemicals.
• Everyone will be provided with gloves and sanitary equipment.
• All animals are disease free.
• All animals are legally and ethically sourced.
• Please do not bring any raw dead animals with you to the class.
• Tickets are not refundable unless event is canceled.

**All tickets are will call**

Please note: refunds issued only if event is cancelled.