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Event
European Starling Taxidermy Class with Divya
In this class, students will create a fully finished mount from a European starling (also known as the common starling). This beautiful bird is an invasive species-60 birds were brought to America from Europe in 1890, and have multiplied to number over 150 million today! The birds coloration changes by season-from glossy black with iridescence to black with spots, to greyish brown, with beaks going from bright yellow to black. This class will cover introductory basic techniques used for small bird taxidermy. Each student will begin with their own bird, which they will proceed to skin, flesh, and mount in the pose of their choice. A selection of anthropomorphic and naturalistic props will be provided, although attendees are also welcome to bring their own, allowing the student to customize their bird. Students will create forms and poses using the technique of wrapping (a very traditional method of creating forms for small animals). We will also discuss the various methods of maintaining feet, beaks, and the delicate nature of grooming feathers. Reference images will be provided, though students are more than welcome to provide their own props and inspiration. We will also discuss federal and state bird laws, as well as the MBTA (a copy of which will be provided).
Each student will leave class with a fully finished piece, and the knowledge to create their own pieces in the future.
Divya Anantharaman is a Brooklyn based artist whose taxidermy practice was sparked by a lifelong fascination with natural mythology and everyday oddities. After a journey filled with experimentation, numerous books, and an inspiring class (Sue Jeiven's Anthropomorphic Mouse Taxidermy Class at Observatory!) and other professional training, she has found her calling in creating sickly sweet and sparkly critters. Beginning with mice and sparrows, her menagerie grew to include domestic cats, woodchucks, and deer. Recently profiled on Vice Fringes, the New York Times, and other publications, she will also be appearing in the upcoming season of Oddities-and is definitely up to no good shenanigans. www.d-i-v-y-a.com
Also, some technical notes:
We use NO harsh or dangerous chemicals. All materials are provided, including gloves and sterilized equipment. Student will leave with a fully finished mount, and the knowledge to create small taxidermy pieces on their own. All animals are disease free. Although there will not be a lot of blood or gore, a certain level of maturity is necessary. All animals were already dead, nothing is 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.
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LocationFabriscope (View)
41 Willow Place
Brooklyn, NY 11201
United States
Categories
Minimum Age: 0 |
Kid Friendly: Yes! |
Dog Friendly: No |
Non-Smoking: Yes! |
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes! |
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Contact
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