Hello from Strong Taxidermy
Hello nerds!
I wanted to introduce myself. I’m Paloma Strong, the owner and founder of Strong Taxidermy. Creating a new taxidermy studio in Los Angeles represents not just a personal venture, but a commitment to the art and science that breathes life into the stories of our natural world. With nearly a decade of experience in a museum taxidermy studio and time spent in an ornithology lab, I have witnessed firsthand how taxidermy can tell the intricate narratives of individual species. After spending the last decade learning the trade and perfecting my craft, I wanted to spread my wings and open my own studio in my home of Los Angeles.
This studio aims to cater to both individual clients and museums, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and education in each crafted piece. My vision extends beyond taxidermy services; I aspire to cultivate a hub for future generations of taxidermists who share a passion for protecting the earth and its diverse animal inhabitants. Through this studio, I hope to inspire a deeper connection between people and nature, showcasing the beauty and complexity of wildlife through the artistry of taxidermy.
My mom always made sure I spent my free time outdoors when the weather was nice - but in rainy Seattle, that meant a lot of trips to the Science Center!
Growing up surrounded by nature instilled in me a deep appreciation for the outdoors, particularly for birds, which have always been a keen interest of mine. My passion for birds is reflected in my name, Paloma, which means dove or pigeon. This admiration inspired me to choose passenger pigeons as my logo, a design brought to life by the talented artist Rachel Rothburg, an incredibly talented artist who also focuses on birds. Passenger pigeons were once endemic to North America and represent a sad but a common story we see in conservation and an example of anthropogenic extinction.
My mission is to focus on naturalism within urban settings, highlighting the remarkable presence of nature in our everyday lives. I aim to convey that, even amidst the hustle and bustle of city life, there is always a piece of the natural world waiting to be discovered and appreciated.
My hope is to open a more public studio in the next year that can host taxidermy artists, enthusiasts, and beginners alike who are training to become the next generation of taxidermists. It is essential to provide a space where diverse perspectives are valued and individuals are given the opportunity to showcase their ideas and talents. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I am particularly committed to fostering a more inclusive environment within the taxidermy field. By creating a studio that welcomes all voices and backgrounds, I aim to cultivate a vibrant community that enhances the artistry and science of taxidermy, ensuring that everyone feels represented and empowered in their creative pursuits.
As a newly established studio, I am still setting up to expand my reach and I want to make the art of taxidermy accessible to a broader audience. I am looking forward to creating new ways to introduce the craft to people who want to learn, no matter their background or accessibility. I want to look into educational approaches that not only showcase the intricate skill involved in taxidermy but also celebrate our connection to the natural world. I aim to foster a deeper appreciation for this unique art form, ensuring that it resonates with both enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Right now, we are set up in a tiny private studio in Los Angeles, but I am looking forward to opening a larger studio in the near future that can host taxidermists who need a place to practice their craft.
My partner and I spend most of our weekends birding. Even if we only have an hour to spend over at the LA River, we try our best to get outside and see the birds. She is a much better spotter than I am, so I just wait until she finds the birds so I can point and shoot!
In the meantime, we invite you to follow along on this exciting journey and receive updates on how the studio is progressing toward its goals. I will be posting bimonthly blog updates that will include valuable information on various projects, comprehensive taxidermy guides, insights on birding in Los Angeles and beyond, as well as captivating stories related to our craft. Thank you for joining us on this adventure!
Feathered regards,
Paloma Strong
