Find out what goes on in the workroom of a taxidermist during a special, one-off lecture at the Western Australian Museum – Perth on Friday, August 17, from 12:30pm.
 
‘The art and science of taxidermy’, presented by WA Museum Senior Preparator Kirsten Tullis, will describe the processes involved in recreating an array of animals for display in the Museum.
 
Kirsten has been working in the taxidermy field for more than 30 years, and said there was something special about bringing an animal back to life.
 
“The world of taxidermy has always been surrounded by a sense of intrigue - extending from the love and fascination people have for animals,” Ms Tullis said.
 
“Knowing even though an animal is no longer alive that it can be ‘resurrected’ through the mysterious process of taxidermy in such a realistic manner is mesmerising to most.”
 
The lecture will explain the intricate and varied process of taxidermy; from making notes and measurements, to the skinning and cleaning, the replacement of muscles, and mounting of the animal - which can take anywhere from a day to many months.
 
“Birds, which are my speciality, take around one to two days - but mammals take much longer given their size and structure,” Kirsten said.
 
“The bison in the Museum’s Mammal Gallery, for example, is estimated to have taken months when it was made over one hundred years ago.”
 
The lecture will also explain the moulding, casting and model-making processes involved in re-creating soft-bodied creatures such as fish, reptiles, frogs and jellyfish.
 
Entry to the lecture is by donation, with bookings essential - register you place online at www.museum.wa.gov.au/inthewildwest or by calling 9212 3813.
 
The Harry Butler lecture series: In the Wild West is proudly presented by the WA Museum in partnership with Chevron Australia. The series showcases the work of Museum scientists, curators and associates in the areas of natural and social sciences.

LECTURE: ‘The art and science of taxidermy’
 
WHEN: Friday 17 August, 12:30pm
 
WHERE: Western Australian Museum - Perth
 
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL: www.museum.wa.gov.au/inthewildwest    
                                                 
COST: By gold coin donation

Niki Comparti, Western Australian Museum, 6552 7805, Niki.Comparti@museum.wa.gov.au