Date: Saturday, March 28th
Time: 12 to 6pm
Admission: $275 (includes all materials for use in class, students go home with their own finished piece, and the knowledge to create their own pieces in the future)
Tickets Here
EXPERIENCE LEVEL-Beginner to Intermediate
Limited class size of 6 people
In this beginner to intermediate level workshop, we will learn about the wonderful diversity of pigeons and classic bird taxidermy. These are NOT New York City pigeons, but fancy heritage breeds, including Fantails and Homers. These fascinating birds were studied by Charles Darwin as one of the examples in his first chapter of “On the Origins of Species”, and a variety of colors will be available for students to select in class. The birds used in this class are naturally deceased show birds from one of America’s leading pigeon enthusiasts-making for a very unique opportunity!
This intensive class will be extremely hands on, covering everything from proper skinning, fleshing, degreasing/washing, and grooming feathers, to the dynamics of classically wrapped bird bodies, dealing with bird necks, cleaning and wiring bones, and preserving or re-attaching feet. We will pay special attention to fitting forms, hidden stitches, and how to arrange feather patterns. We will discuss and use various carding techniques and drying set ups tailored to the individual poses of each bird.
The intimate nature of the class will allow students to follow along as I work, seeing the techniques in action, with plenty of individual attention. Patience is one of the most important tools in bird taxidermy! Reference photos for finished standing, sitting, and flying poses will be provided for use and inspiration in class, and students are welcome to bring their own if desired.
Students will go home with their creations, and instructions for maintaining their pieces (keeping feathers clean, ideal drying set-ups, etc) This will be a truly one of a kind experience!
Each student will leave class with a fully finished piece, and the knowledge to create their own pieces in the future. It is recommended students bring a 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 National Geographic, The NY Times, The Cut, Vice/Fringes, 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.
Although there will not be a lot of blood or gore, a somewhat strong constitution and maturity are necessary. We will be seeing meat. In this manner, a good taxidermist prides themselves on working cleanly!
In consideration of other students, please do not dissect carcasses in class. (You are welcome to take the carcass and dissect on your own, instruction can be provided)
All animals are ethically sourced- nothing was killed for this class. Animals used in this class are discards from the feeder/pet food industry, naturally deceased, or discards from the food service industry.
Please do not bring any raw dead animals with you to the class.
