Willunga Library will host a talk on the Art & Craft of Taxidermy on Wednesday 1 November.

Discover the interest in home taxidermy during the 1800s and its resurgence as an art form in the 21st century.

Librarian Carolyn Spooner, from the State Library of South Australia and 3D Design Specialist Jo Bain, from South Australian Museum recorded this presentation in June.

It will be screened as part of Willunga Library's Live & Learn series: talks recorded at the State Library of South Australia showcasing their collections and fascinating glimpses of South Australian history.

Taxidermy was part of the 19th century interest in natural science sparked by discoveries of scientists such as Charles Darwin. 

It became something of a hobby as part of producing ‘cabinets of curiosities’. In the 21st century it has taken on a new life as an art form.

The State Library has some 50 items in the collection on the topic including how-to-books, magazine articles, archival documents, oral histories, motion pictures, fiction and art books dating from 1818 to 2018.

The Taxidermists at the South Australian Museum have an intriguing history with some curious stories to tell, up to the present day.

The free session will take place from 1.30pm to 3pm and will include a light afternoon tea. Register to attend via Eventbrite.