Paxidermy is my take on taxidermy. No dead animals. Just joy. I sculpt happy creatures with paper mache and other materials, focusing on peace, whimsy, and expression. Inspired by Theodore Geisel’s Unorthodox Taxidermy series, I wanted to create something just as playful.

My first attempt? A smiling tiger trout. I started with the fins. No real reason, it just felt right. Used cardboard and grass straw, then covered them with crepe paper. Built up the body with newspaper, layered on paper mache.

The best part? The details. Bright, wild tiger stripes. Big, vibrant eyes. A grin with a dimple. Not realistic, just full of life.

Now Tiger Trout hangs in the hallway, spreading joy every time I pass.