In Keller, Texas, James Bacon has transformed his passion for wildlife into a successful taxidermy business. Initially self-taught from a book, Bacon began his journey into taxidermy after a disappointing experience with another taxidermist. Today, he operates a thriving workshop behind his home, where he works alongside his son Zack and apprentice Bridget Samuel.

A Respectful Approach to Taxidermy

Bacon’s approach to taxidermy is rooted in a deep respect for animals, a sentiment he shares with many hunters. “They preserve the animals, they manage the animals on their properties,” Bacon explained, emphasizing that most hunters engage in the practice for food as well as sport.

His workshop handles between 300 to 400 animals annually, providing high-quality mounts that honor the beauty of wildlife. The intricate process involves preserving the animal’s skin and mounting it on a foam mannequin, a task that requires precision and artistry.

Women in Taxidermy

Interestingly, Bacon has noticed a growing interest in taxidermy among women. Bridget Samuel, his apprentice, was drawn to the craft as it combines her love for art and nature. “There’s no gender associated with doing art, and taxidermy is no different,” Samuel said, noting the detail-oriented nature of the work.

Samuel, who works in pharmaceutical sales, sees taxidermy as a fulfilling hobby and a potential future income source. She encourages others to explore new interests, saying, “You’ll never know what you might fall in love with if you don’t give it a shot from the get-go.”

As Bacon celebrates 30 years in business, his workshop continues to be a place where respect for wildlife and artistic expression come together, inspiring a new generation of taxidermists.

Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.