Ref: SWE36010
Throughout this course you will be taught traditional taxidermy techniques. You will learn how to skin and deflesh a bird using the appropriate tools and techniques required. You will be shown cleaning and preservation methods using only borax, a cleaning substitute.
Studying the anatomy of the bird, you will learn how to reconstruct your own form made out of wood, wool and thread. Taxidermy requires an understanding of the behaviours and anatomical adaptations of the animal. You will be shown how to fictionalise and animate the bird by creating poses inspired by natural history books and images of birds.
All birds used have been shot by gamekeepers for their meat or they are considered pests. You will be working with the bird skins that are considered a waste product. The season dictates what you will be working on during the course.
On this course all of the materials will be provided, including a bird which is ethically sourced by the tutor.
Available from shop: A good variety of art and craft materials including notebooks and pens
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes). Tutor supervision required at all times.
Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm for registration
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included)
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential
Daily timetable
Course teaching 9.15am - 5pm (lunch included)
Dinner: from 6.30pm (included for residential students)
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed
Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm (lunch included)
Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am
Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required
Tonja Grung has studied and worked in rural science, art and design, education, furniture and structural welding. She now works as a full time and professional taxidermist in London on commissions ranging from a chameleon to a pelican.
Tonja also works on collaborations, private and commercial collections for education, museums and the film industry.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
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