every piece begins with care and respect for the life that once was💫✨
Frequently Asked Questions
Who am I?
My name is Mandy, I am 25 years old and I live in Belgium! My birthday is september 5✨ I share my heart and home with 2 ferret pals, Larry & Mimo, a dachshund Tekkie, a scorpion, 2 leopard gecko’s & a jumping spider who I adore in every single way❤️
I adore all animals, regardless of their size, and I find a deeper connection with animals than with humans. I work part-time at a daycare for elderly individuals with dementia, where I also get to be creative and craft fun things🤍
Like every other person, I have my own flaws. At the age of 12, I received a diagnosis of arthritis, causing severe muscle pain and bone inflammation. Later on, I experienced mysterious pain, which was eventually linked to ‘Fibromyalgia’ , affecting my perception of pain. Consequently, a touch that might feel normal to others can be quite painful for me. There are days when I feel extremely tired and experience pain, but engaging in this new hobby truly lifts my spirits and brightens my week✨
I also love clothes, tattoos and music. At the moment I have a lot of tattoos, and I adore the traditional old school style while also having a soft spot for ornamental style tattoo’s.
I could go on and on and on but I hope this post gives you a better view of who I am, and feel free to ask any questions if you have some! 🤍
The story behind my specimens
Where do your specimens come from?
All animals I work with come from trusted sources such as zoos, breeders, veterinarians, or are kindly gifted by fellow animal lovers. They have passed naturally, often stillborn, elderly, or ill. I do not harm animals for my art.
Why don’t you call it “ethical” taxidermy?
While many use that word, I personally avoid it. To me, “ethical” would mean knowing with certainty that an animal did not suffer, and that’s something I can’t truly know. What I can promise is that every piece is handled with care, dignity, and respect.
Why do you create these pieces?
My work is about remembrance, honoring their softness, presence, and quiet beauty. Each piece is a way of saying: You mattered. You’re still seen.
How are wet specimens shipped?
They are shipped without liquid to prevent leakage during transit. Once received, fill the jar with at least 70% bio-ethanol or alcohol and close tightly. Store in a shaded, safe place.
Changing liquid of a wet specimen
What if my liquid turns yellow?
It is completely normal for preserved specimens to develop a yellowish tint over time. This is a natural part of the preservation process and does not mean something is wrong.
Changing the liquid
- Work in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves (outside is best).
- Carefully remove the specimen (if possible).
- Dispose of the old liquid properly (never down the drain).
- Briefly rinse the specimen in clean alcohol or water (optional).
- Refill the jar with fresh 70–80% bio-ethanol or 70% isopropyl alcohol.
- Seal the jar and store away from sunlight.