FAQ

  • Are these real bones/is this real leather?

Everything created is made with nature as best as possible! You will never find faux leather or fake bones here. Our mission is to "create from the earth, to return back to dust", utilizing what our planet offers us.

  • Where do you get your materials?

Ethical practice is at the forefront of our mission, so we have always been transparent with where we get our sources. Our specimens come from natural death, often sourced from reputable breeders, pets, zoos and roadkill/scavenged.  For antlers, deer shed them naturally, so they are simply gathered from the earth. In some cases such as leather, materials are recycled from industries that would otherwise waste the materials. 

  • Explain your sustainability, what is your impact?
We use biodegradable materials, from nature, to dissolve back into it; recyclable materials such as metal, are able to be reused almost indefinitely without degradation. Animals are never raised or harmed for the purpose of art, only natural death. We only work with people who support responsible preservation of wildlife, their habitats and the environment we share.

Using materials that our planet provides is part of the natural life cycle of things, and is SIGNIFIGANTLY less detrimental to the environment than synthetic products. Faux fur and plastics, not only take forever to break down, but introduce pollutants to the ecosystem, use more resources to create and negatively impact the natural workings of our planet. Human civilizations of past had learned to work with nature and use what it offered in an honorable and respectful way... we aim to return to roots, not letting anything go to waste, while still respecting the natural order of life.

  • Where do your insects come from?

Some bugs are found, collected over the years from various places our designer Ari has gone. If there is a story behind your particular bug, a card will come with information detailing where it was found! Otherwise, insects used come from the wonderful people over at The Butterfly Company, a local Chicago group that practices ethics and sustainability in line with our own values. Occasionally, we will be gifted found critters as well (post death). All insects are spread in house by Ari.

  • Do you ship outside of the US?

Not currently, we do not due to legal restrictions and the materials we work with. For any pieces NOT made from animals (ie, artwork, metal, etc.) we can; please contact BEFORE purchase to make arrangements.

  • Can I get a custom design/have a piece made from a specific animal (or even my pet)?

Custom: YES! We do take on custom designs. Whether it`s a gift or for yourself, a special event, wedding, photoshoot or more, our designer Ari would love to make your dreams a reality. Contact us, providing details, color palette and whatever else. Expect a response within 2-3 business days.

 

Pets: Ari is currently learning taxidermy and working on arrangements to make this a possibility. There is a ton of work that goes into processing bones, time, having the space and safety measures. Much is being done to accommodate further expansion, and depending on the project you have in mind, we may already be able to take it on! Reach out and we`ll talk shop.

  • Resources:

CITES

https://www.fws.gov/law/convention-international-trade-endangered-flora-and-fauna

MBTA

https://www.fws.gov/law/migratory-bird-treaty-act-1918

ESA

https://www.fws.gov/law/endangered-species-act

Searchable US Database of Protected Species

https://edecs.fws.gov/pub/species.cfm

 

Visit your state's Fish and Wildlife website for more local rules.