Location: Graham Auditorium
Registration is required.

Ancient Egyptians mummified animals for many reasons, including to preserve cherished pets after death, to offer food to the deceased in tombs, and so their souls could deliver messages to the gods. Today, taxidermists preserve animals for a variety of other purposes, including educational and artistic uses. Join us for this special lecture during the opening weekend of Soulful Creatures: Animal Mummies in Ancient Egypt as we connect modern-day practices with ancient ones.

Listen to a presentation on current practices in animal preservation by Divya Anantharaman, artist and taxidermist, and learn about the unique characteristics of living animals that many seek to highlight and preserve from Colby Bieschke, Manager of Nature Camps and Summer Camp Director at Irvine Nature Center. Following the presentations, audience members can submit questions for a public Q&A moderated by Lisa Anderson-Zhu, Curator of Ancient Mediterranean Art and Curator of Provenance. Stay a little longer for a public reception featuring Egyptian street food from Koshary Corner following the program in the Museum Cafe.

Soulful Creatures: Animal Mummies in Ancient Egypt highlights the stories behind animal mummification and is on view from September 27, 2025–January 11, 2026.

REGISTER

This program is one of two lectures that are generously funded each year by the Boshell Foundation.

About the Speakers

Divya Anantharaman is a New York City taxidermist whose practice was sparked by a lifelong fascination with art and science. She’s won multiple professional awards for her work and regularly teaches the art of taxidermy at museums, galleries, universities, and shops across the world. Her work is on display in the Chamber of Wonders at the Walters Art Museum, and she’s devoted to the preservation of wildlife.

Colby Bieschke serves as the Manager of Nature Camps and Summer Camp Director at Irvine Nature Center. With over a decade of experience in environmental education, Bieschke is dedicated to fostering nature-based learning and outdoor exploration for all. His passion for environmental education extends beyond Irvine. He serves as President of the Otter Point Creek Alliance, where he continues to advocate for environmental stewardship and community engagement. He’s a leader in LGBTQ+ Outdoors and a carnivorous plant keeper. Bieschke shows those around him that learning is forever!

Available resources: Assistive Listening Devices, Seating, Sensory Kits
Accessibility resources and accommodations are available for programs and events. Please email [email protected] with questions and requests. We will make every effort to provide accommodations. Visit our accessibility web page for more information.