3 Day Otter Taxidermy
This 3-Day class series will be co-taught by Allis Markham & Tim Bovard, museum taxidermist at The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles.
This is a pre-release class specifically for graduates of both beginning mammals (Skunks, Opossum, Raccoons) or those who did Bords 101 but may have relevant taxidermy experience / knowledge.
Otters are short-haired mammals with unique physical characteristics both in body, face, and pose. This creates a more challenging specimen for taxidermy -- but let's be real, they're just so dang cute. We have never offered this class before and don't know if we will be able to again.
This class will include advanced techniques used in only the highest levels of taxidermy:
- Modifying commercial forms for size
- Techniques for truly reading reference
- Custom posing while keeping accurate anatomy
- Expression and changes of facial details
- Working with polyurethane, Bondo/resin, and other advanced materials
- Creating a 'wet look' for their Otter
- Discussion of the utilization of other commercial forms for other/custom species
Each student will work with tanned skin that was diligently prepared by our staff; giving students only the highest quality specimen. All supplies, tools & specimens will be provided for you. Students will also be given a take-home finishing kit, PDF of each step, supply lists, tools lists, and resources that might help them on their taxidermy journey.
We will be working on River Otters collected as part of pest control/abatement in areas where irrigation and water flow have become a problem when unnaturally encroached on by River Otters. Their deaths are not related to the art and are simply a by-product of pest & population management.
We understand this class is cost prohibitive. Please know it is due to our high overhead, specimen cost, preparation time, staff labor, and extra day teaching. For these reasons, we are allowing students to pay in 4 payments.
Students may leave a 25% deposit on this class with code 'OTTERPAY1'. You will then pay each additional 25% on or before the following dates/links:
(We will email you a reminder if you forget)
Location & Cancellations
** Please review our strict cancellation policy here **
LOCATION: The class will be held at the new Prey Taxidermy studio at 2684 Lacy St Los Angeles 90031. You will receive a confirmation email with a liability waiver and other information a few days before class.