In this class, we will learn about the fascinating anatomy of birds and the oxidation process of skeleton cleaning. This class is designed for beginners with an interest in bird preservation and skeletal preparation. No matter the experience level, all are welcome!
Students will learn everything they need to create their very own bird skeleton display in a glass dome. Skeletons will be provided, and students will be able to modify, articulate, and position them to their liking, and mount them onto bases, topped with a glass dome. Students will then create a naturalistic or fantasy habitat customized to their bird, and go home with a piece of osteological art that is ready to display.
These bird skeletons have been cleaned using the oxidation process, which involves a series of chemical soaks, and manual cleaning, that leaves a delicate layer of ligaments intact. As this process requires a few days, and appropriate ventilation, the students will be working with skeletons that have already been cleaned, but will be given information on how to safely and effectively clean small bird skeletons on their own.
Our subject will be the English sparrow. Sparrows were brought to America to "rescue the trees from the caterpillars”, but they became prolific enough to outdo native birds, causing substantial destruction to wildlife and crops. However, they enliven our cities. Their unwavering tenacity reflects a larger truth across species, making the best of a situation they’ve found themselves in. They are one of few birds that are not protected by the MBTA, and can be legally possessed by individuals as long as local laws are followed. These birds are legally and sustainably sourced, no animals are harmed 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 and preservation. For more information or to sign up, click the link below.
About the instructor-
A unique combination of science and style, 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, and make the field more accessible and engaging. She has recently starred in the Emmy winning documentary short, "Rearranging Skin". In her commitment to conservation, she regularly volunteers with various ornithological organizations (such as NYC Plover Project and NYC Audubon). You can learn more at https://www.gothamtaxidermy.com/