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The word 'Taxidermy' derives from Latin, meaning 'movement of skin'. This is technically accurate- essentially the most important part of the taxidermy process involves arranging a preserved skin onto a pre-prepared manneqin. However, as there is much more to the process than this; it is a craft which requires knowledge of a wide range of skills. Many people's experiences with taxidermy are scruffy, aged Victorian pieces in antique shops or pubs; goof taxidermy specimens are scarce and are perhaps best seen in museums. I have been fascinated by the craft since childhood- especially cased dioramas- little undisturbed pieces of a natural world, preserved for posterity, completely at odds with their indoor setting.

For some people, it can come as a surprise to learn that in order to excel at the skill of taxidermy, one has to be passionate about nature and an animal lover. In the same way as a good portrait painter has the ability to empathise with their subject and convey their essence and humanity, a good taxidermist must do the same with their work. Many taxidermists are ardent conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts and use their work to highlight the beauty and importance of our fragile natural world.

Aside from the game shooting industry- which will continue whether taxidermists exist or not- most modern taxidermists acquire their specimens as a result of road casualties, cat kill, or captive- bred deaths.

Most of the work I do is for my own personal collection which are inspires my painting practice as well as being used for art teaching, and biodiversity education. As well as practicing it myself, I also collect and restore historic taxidermy examples.

I am very interested in historic methods of taxidermy and diorama construction. For my research on the Irish taxidermy industry in the 19th and 20th century, please click here.

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