My fascination with deer – as a hunter, taxidermist and photographer

As a passionate deer hunter for over 40 years, I have always been fascinated by the graceful movements, keen senses and natural elegance of the deer. This majestic creature has not only challenged me as a hunter, but also deeply inspired me as a taxidermist and photographer. Studying the deer up close – both in the wild and through the study of shot animals and through taxidermist work – has given me a unique understanding of its anatomy, colors and distinctive features.

Over the years I have had the opportunity to observe countless details that often go unnoticed. The color of the eyes can vary from lighter shades in older bucks to deep, dark brown tones in younger animals. The muzzle reflects this development, with the oldest bucks often having lighter muzzles than the younger ones. The hide also tells a story – the oldest bucks develop an impressive thickness in the neck area, reflecting their strength.

In the early years I sent the skins away for tanning, but about 15 years ago I decided to learn the process myself.

After being introduced to the entire process of tanning leather by my friend Bjørn Eide, who was the manager of GC Rieber Skinn in Bergen – one of Norway's oldest tanneries, established in 1879 – I began tanning my own leather using my own tanning techniques.

I have continued old craft techniques that have resulted in high quality leather used in my installations in recent years.

fascination with the deer – as a hunter, taxidermist and photographer

My fascination with deer – as a hunter, taxidermist and photographer