Stunning Sunset Moths: Introduction to Bug Pinning with Mickey Alice Kwapis 

Learn how to spread and dry your own sunset moth specimen to keep. Using a rehydrated specimen ready to spread, each student will be guided through the process of flexing, posing, pinning, and drying their own moth specimen. This incredible insect native to Madagascar is a day-flying moth with structural colors that catch the light just right to appear as an iridescent rainbow. You will leave with your finished pinned specimen ready to dry at home as well as a spreading board and tool set to keep for use with future projects, including projects with butterflies as well. The week following the workshop, students will receive an email containing a digital guide to the entire spreading process going from a dried or freshly deceased specimen to completion.

No experience necessary, ages 12 and under must be accompanied by a calm adult who can assist where needed. One specimen and tool set is provided per ticket purchased, so if the adult wishes to participate with their own specimen set, an additional ticket can be purchased. 

About the Instructor 

Mickey is an artist in Chicago exploring death, grief, and the natural world. Her studio practice primarily includes taxidermy, jewelry, stained glass, and cyanotypes which naturally interlace with each other across projects. 

Class registration fees include admission to the Whatcom Museum, one specimen and tool kit, and supplementary reading materials to learn how to repeat the process with more specimens at home.  

All workshop registrations are final and non-refundable, but you may transfer your spot to another person by notifying us in advance.