Birding for Artists

 In-person workshop, all Pratt community are welcome.

Art and science are both ways of making sense of the world, using observations to inform work. Observation is an important tool for artists, however, we are often too busy, distracted, or stressed to deeply engage with it! We will be attuning ourselves to nature that thrives around us, so we can gain deeper and more meaningful inspiration from it.

This is a gently guided experience, intended to nurture multi-sensory engagement with birds and other wildlife found on the Pratt Campus. We will move about the campus, and look for birds (and other wildlife) primarily by sight and sound. Unlike traditional birding which focuses on species identification, our focus will be on engaging with what our senses perceive. We will reflect on and share our observations with the group. There is absolutely no birding experience required (though you may end up being a better birder anyway!) We will be traveling, stopping, and observing along the Pratt campus, covering sidewalks, grass, and cobblestone terrain. There will be time spent moving and stationary, standing and sitting, depending on the locations visited. The pace will be dictated by the group, and is meant to be relaxed and inclusive. Please dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Please let us know if you have any accessibility needs or concerns. 

Divya Anantharaman, Gotham Taxidermy, Pratt Institute Alum

A unique combination of science and style, Divya Anantharaman is New York City's premiere taxidermist. An award winning licensed professional preserving animals with honor and compassion for clients ranging from museums, designers, gallerists, and collectors. 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 passionate about the human-animal relationship, engaging diverse perspectives, and demystifying taxidermy for beginners through workshops and lectures in a safe, inclusive environment. In her commitment to conservation, she works with various organizations like the Audubon Society. All animal parts are legally and sustainably obtained.

She was recently featured in the award winning documentary, “Rearranging Skin”. In addition to running her own business, she works part time at the esteemed studio of George Dante, which specializes in museum taxidermy and historic conservation. Here, her passion for nature grows through helping preserve animals and exhibits for future generations. She is also a board member of the New England Association of Taxidermists and Garden State Taxidermy Association. She was awarded 2019 Best of Category Professional Division for both Birds and Mammals at the New England Taxidermy Championships, won second place in the Professional division at the 2017 World Taxidermy Championships, and is the coauthor of the book "Stuffed Animals: A Modern Guide to Taxidermy."

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Pratt Institute, 200 Willoughby Avenue, Brooklyn, United States