Learn about the fascinating anatomy of mammals and traditional mammal taxidermy. This class is designed for beginners with an interest in taxidermy. No matter the experience level, all are welcome!

Students will learn everything they need to create their very own mouse taxidermy mount, from proper skinning, degreasing/washing to sculpting, mounting, and finishing. Students will watch a skinning and fleshing demonstration, and proceed to work with professionally-cleaned and tanned skins. This will allow the students to focus on the finer details of creating a finished piece, and practice specific mounting techniques, like carving, fitting, and modifying a form, sewing, assembly, and grooming. We will discuss how to use reference and study anatomy practically for beginner’s taxidermy. Our subject will be the domestic mouse. Their beady eyes and furry feet dart across our parks, sidewalks, and sometimes our homes causing alarm, but domestic mice are loving companions doted on by many. These adorable mammals are lovely subjects for taxidermy, as many people have encountered them, and they can be posed naturalistically or anthropomorphically, depending on your preference. These mice are legally and sustainably sourced; they are not taken for the sake of taxidermy. Students will go home with their custom-made creations, instructions for maintaining their pieces, and newfound or nourished love of taxidermy.

Pre-registration required

$285 for ADKX Members; $315 for Non-Members

About the Instructor: 

Divya Anantharaman is an award- winning licensed professional preserving animals with honor and compassion for clients ranging from museums, designers, collectors, and everyday naturalists. Her specialties are birds, small mammals, and anatomic anomalies, with a select number of commissions open for pets. Her work seeks to combine the demonstrative aspect of scientific presentation with the symbolic, introspective nature of art, using taxidermy to engage diverse audiences with conservation. She is passionately curious about the untapped potential of this scientific art, and sharing it with others. Her classes seek to demystify the taxidermy process, to make the field more accessible, and to engage folks with wonder and connection to the natural world. In her commitment to conservation, she regularly volunteers with various ornithological organizations (such as the formerly named NYC Audubon Society and NYC Plover Project). You can learn more at https://www.gothamtaxidermy.com/

Location:

The Adirondack Experience
9097 State Route 30
Lago de la Montaña Azul, NY 12812