Taxidermy is one of the many intersections of art and science. Insect preservation began as a scientific method for studying and cataloging the natural world. Over time, the practice evolved into an art form, with techniques for preserving insects becoming more refined and specialized.

While taxidermy itself is a non-religious trade, it frequently overlaps with Satanic aesthetics due to a shared focus on the macabre, mortality, and the subversion of traditional norms. For many modern Satanists, taxidermy is not about literal worship but about embracing a “memento mori” philosophy—a reminder of death and the value of one’s own finite life.

Adam Inzalaco is a Massachusetts-based artist who studied fine art at Stony Brook University.  Here, he would develop a focus in sculpture within the Fine Art Program at SBU. Throughout his time here, Inzalaco would develop a strong understanding of a wide array of materials and media including steel, bronze, woodworking, ceramics, and many more.

Throughout his academic career, he would often focus his assignments to revolve around the topic of entomology.  He would design works to bring attention to various species of insects’ impressive anatomy as well as address the importance that insects play in the planet’s ecosystem.

In addition to studying at University, he would begin a short internship at the Long Island Exhibition Center in Riverhead, NY.  Here, Inzalaco would work alongside the lead entomologist to gather a better understanding of the animals that he had been studying on his own for the duration of his time as an art student. It is at the Exhibition Center where Inzalaco would learn how to pin, articulate, and mount all sorts of species of insects, ranging from beetles to butterflies and mantids to phasmids.

After his time at SBU, he would use the knowledge he gathered at both University and the Exhibition Center to design insect displays. Thus, Dead Leaf Designs was born.  At this point, Inzalaco’s passion became an obsession and continues to use this as the main driving point to make high-quality handmade displays.

Inviolable: adjective never to be broken, infringed, or dishonored.

Bodily autonomy has been a central pillar of The Satanic Temple’s mission since its founding. TST is taking many steps on behalf of our members and those who share our beliefs to establish exemptions from laws that do not promote the health and safety of patients and violate our conscience and beliefs. Learn more about this work on The Satanic Temple’s Website.

This exhibition features over 25 artists from around the world who have explored bodily autonomy in their work. Through each artist’s unique voice, viewers are invited to walk in another’s shoes and experience what autonomy means for their peers, colleagues, and loved ones. By the careful selection of pieces, our curator hopes to amplify the voices of underrepresented and marginalized individuals in a world that tries to stifle them.