THE ART OF ENTOMOLOGY
DEATH’S HEAD HAWKMOTH PINNING CLASS
This class is limited to 30 seats!
Date: Thursday May 29th, 2025
Time: 6:30-8:30pm
Class Description:
Discover the fascinating world of insect preservation in this beginner-friendly, hands-on workshop led by instructor Kristin Silver. This unique class invites you to work with the stunning Acherontia atropos, better known as Death’s Head Hawkmoth, famously recognized from the film Silence of the Lambs. Over the course of this two-hour experience, you’ll delve into the art of entomology and learn how to manipulate and preserve a real moth for display. With Kristin’s expert guidance, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to mount your moth in a provided shadow box frame after it has dried.
What to Expect:
This engaging and educational evening will cover:
A fascinating introduction to the species, including its history, taxonomy, anatomy, and natural distribution.
An overview of all the tools and materials needed for insect pinning.
Insights into how your moth was prepared for pinning and tips for prepping butterflies or moths on your own.
Step-by-step instruction on handling and pinning your moth while preserving its delicate structure and beauty.
Guidance on unpinning and mounting your moth once it has dried into position.
Tips for sourcing specimens in the future (in case you fall in love with this art form).
Essential care instructions to ensure the longevity of your preserved moth.
As a bonus, you’ll gain access to Kristin’s digital insect pinning course, which includes a comprehensive guide and a refresher for framing your dried moth.
Materials Provided:
One real Death’s Head Hawkmoth
A complete insect pinning kit: foam board, spade tweezers, vellum paper, and stainless-steel entomology pins.
A pre-matted 8x8” shadowbox frame for display
Access to the digital course, The Complete Guide to Pinning Butterflies
Additional Information:
This class is designed for enjoyment and discovery! While you’re welcome to take notes, all information covered will also be available in a digital course. Feel free to snap photos of your progress—preserving memories is just as important as preserving your moth!
Please note: Moths contain a joint protein like that found in shellfish. If you have a shellfish allergy, gloves will be provided for your safety.
About Your Instructor:
Meet Kristin Silver, owner and artist behind Silver Moon Curiosities. With over 15 years of experience in art education and eight years of creating exquisite entomological displays, Kristin is passionate about helping others discover the beauty and artistry of the insect world. Her approachable teaching style ensures that every participant feels inspired and leaves with newfound skills and appreciation for these incredible creatures.
Beverages will be provided inside the Altar Room during this beautiful evening of natural history, social creativity, and science! Join Us!
This class is limited to 30 seats! Registration is required.
Date: Thursday May 29th, 2025
Time: Doors open at 6pm, class is from 6:30-8:30pm
$85 per person, all inclusive.
*An email reminder will be sent out to all registered students one week prior to class date.
THE ART OF ENTOMOLOGY - DEATH’S HEAD HAWKMOTH PINNING 5/29/2025
What you should know:
We welcome beginners! This is a 2-hour hands-on class and lecture (15 minutes is devoted to checking in, getting acquainted, picking out a beverage and finding your seat) Your in-class syllabus includes any needed tools as it pertains to certain classes and is provided by the instructor.
The dos and don’ts of our classes: *To respect the privacy of attendees:Please do not bring in your prejudices. Classes are a neutral and safe space for attendees. You are welcome to bring a notebook and an open mind. The facility is a friendly environment that is meant to enjoy and inform. Come prepared and ready to learn, be on time, and silence your cell phones. We respect everyone’s time; therefore, classes start ON TIME. The first 15 minutes are set aside to get acquainted and find a seat. If you are late, come in quietly, check-in, and find a seat immediately. Classes and lectures are structured and based on historicaland contemporary practices, experiences, and knowledge. These classes are designed for personal knowledge, and not structured to be intimidating.
Refund/exchange policy: We do not refund classes, however if you feel you cannot make the class, we can reschedule you for the same class at a later date OR exchange it for another class of the same cost. This MUST be done within 3 days before the class date by emailing: TheHighAltar@gmail.com. If you are a “no-show” to class, there is no refund or exchange