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Event
Carcass Casting & Death Mask Class
This is an especially good class for students who already do taxidermy on their own, and want to learn a new way to build a form other than wrapped body. We will learn how to make a mold, and how to cast lightweight materials into that mold to make a hard form for taxidermy mounts, or how to make a death mask. Students can pick if they want to go home with a death mask (a plaster cast of an animal face/head), or with a taxidermy mold (in urethane foam or fiberglass/resin). Both techniques will be taught in class. Although we will be working on a small scale in class, the techniques we will use can be scaled up for larger pieces.
Students come to class with their own small head, or body part of their choice to cast. In order to accommodate all students, it is kindly requested that parts are kept smaller than 6in x 6in. For carcass casting, the part should be already skinned, and for death masks, the part can be left with the skin on. If you are unable to procure a part, I will gladly bring something for use-please specify in advance! All specimen should be frozen hard (48 hours recommended) into the position you'd like your finished piece to be- detailed instructions on how to freeze can be sent as needed. We will learn how to make a mold from the carcass, how to plan, and how to mix and work with plaster, 2 part expanding urethane foam, and other materials. This is a technique that lends itself to getting high accuracy and total control and customization. Getting the hang of this technique enables students to cast odd sized/type animals, or work with more complicated poses. Students will go home with their molds and carcasses, and basic mold making knowledge to use for making their own molds in the future, being able to scale this technique up or down to any size critter they work on in the future.
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 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, 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
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.
If bringing your own parts, you assume responsibility for the sourcing and legality.
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LocationPandora's Box (View)
14 Main Street
Milford, MA 01757
United States
Categories
| Kid Friendly: Yes! |
| Dog Friendly: No |
| Non-Smoking: Yes! |
| Wheelchair Accessible: Yes! |
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