The bat is the only true flying mammal. Their order Chiroptera contains over 1,300 species which range in size from just over 1 inch in length to the giant golden-crowned flying fox which has a wingspan of almost six feet.
In Aztec mythology, bats symbolised the land of the dead, destruction and decay; and in many other cultures, including in Europe, they represent darkness, death, witchcraft, vampires and malevolence, perhaps from their nocturnal habits. “Fur of bat” was an ingredient of the witches’ brew in Macbeth. But in China bats are associated with happiness, joy and good fortune. They are sacred in Tonga. They have even made an important contribution to the global economy: bat guano (excrement) was Texas’s largest mineral export before oil was struck.
In the UK bats comprise a quarter of our native mammalian species. Anyone who kills, injures, obstructs or disturbs a bat can be fined up to £5,000 or face six months in prison.
This two-hour workshop is hosted by taxidermist and London Month of the Dead co-founder Suzette Field. All equipment is provided (including a frame and an ethically-sourced bat skeleton) and you will go home with a gothic curio for your mantelpiece.
Tickets £70 including a 20% donation toward a host of restoration projects at Kensal Green Cemetery.
Suzette Field
Suzette Field is a writer, impresario, graphic artist and taxidermist. She was one of the founders of The Modern Times Club and for seven years co-ran The Last Tuesday Society. Since 2014 she has run A Curious Invitation, an organisation devoted to bringing parties, talks and workshops to London and beyond. She has collected and taught taxidermy for over 10 years. Along with Stephen Coates, she is the founder and curator of London Month of the Dead.
| Ticket | Event time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
|
Aviators of the Night
Bat Skeleton Mounting Workshop |
11:00 - 13:00 | £74.20 |
Address
Dissenters Chapel, Kensal Green Cemetery, 391 Ladbroke Grove, London, W10 5AB
Nearest Station
Ladbroke Grove (Tube)
Getting there
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