Bestul discusses ‘capturing moment in time’
By Holly Neumann
Amanda Bestul has always admired the artistry of taxidermy.
Her father-in-law, Scott Bestul, encouraged her to get started after she moved to Iola.
“I took a five-week course at the American Institute of Taxidermy in Boulder Junction,” Bestul said. “I love being able to use my analytical science and creative side.”
Mammals are Bestul’s favorite projects to work on.
“I love the beauty in the world of mammals,” she said. “Taking components and capturing a moment in time with an animal is really rewarding.”
One of the first mammals Bestul worked on was an otter.
“He has since become a sort of mascot for me,” she said. “I love the fierceness of otters for how ‘cute’ they may appear.”
Bestul teamed up with mentor Troy Piotrowski of New Life Taxidermy in Amherst for her most unique project: a half giraffe mount.
“I think that will go down as the most unique piece of my career,” she said. “It sits at about 9 feet tall.”
Most of Bestul’s projects take eight to 10 months to complete.
“As far as a deer mount goes, I skin, flesh and tan the hide to prepare it for mounting,” she said. “Then goes on a urethane foam form with glass eyes and earliners.”
The antlers are reattached and she works to achieve the correct look.
“As a taxidermist, we have to be a jack of all trades: construction, anatomy, chemistry, sewing and so many other things that go on before the finished mount,” Bestul said.
She said her passion makes her good at what she does.
“I love doing it and I never stop learning new techniques to better myself,” she said.
Bestul is in her fifth year of doing taxidermy. She now has a dedicated shop, Bestul Taxidermy, located at 189 N. Main St. in Iola. It’s in the same building as Lessons from the Art, around the back alley, across from Grayhill.
“I love how supportive the community is of smaller businesses and I am proud to be a part of it,” Bestul said.
She can be reached by calling 715-445-1092 or by visiting her Facebook page.
“I try to keep regular hours Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.,” she said. “It’s always best to call and make an appointment before coming in.”