How do you go about finding a study skin collection to use?
The best place to start is a college or university that is close to your residence. Your best bet is to check in with the biology department to see if one of the professors specializes in ornithology (the study of birds). If so, send him or her a letter or e-mail detailing who you are and your request to use the skins. Be specific about which skin(s) you need, why you would like access to them, and how quickly you can be finished. If you have worked with a study skin collection in the past, note that in your letter and be specific as to which collection, and the year(s) you used it. If you have a background in the sciences, note that as well, and provide the URL to your website if you have one.
Be prepared not to be granted access to the collection! A college or university is under no obligation to help you out. Things that may help your cause include:
- Working with ornithologists or collections in the past
- Having a background in biology
- Being a pro-level artist and/or known in your community as an artist
- Having an affiliation with the college, university, or local conservation organizations
- Volunteering on local biology/conservation projects
If you're turned down, you may try checking in with other, more distant colleges or universities and natural history museums to see if they have skin collections you could access. Additionally, some natural history museums have mounted skins (taxidermied mounts) on display behind glass that may meet your needs, but beware of the older mounts as they may have faded or discolored greatly over time. It's usually fine to bring a sketchbook and pen/pencil to museums, but wet media and cameras may not be allowed. Check with the museum before visiting.
If that fails and you're still interested in drawing from skins, don't give up! Join the local Audubon society or birders' group and make yourself and needs known. Be patient, keep talking, keep promoting yourself, continue to create and market your art, and volunteer with on conservation or research projects that appeal to you.
