Violet Eyes Entomology
location_on Richmond, Melbourne
local_activity classes and kits: Entomology
5.0 (9)
17k followers
Jason Penfold grew up in country Australia, where his love for natural history began to grow. Surrounded by plants, animals and stones, his imagination and strong connection to nature has always been a passion.
Jason's love for stones and minerals was nurtured through a family passion for Lapidary, which goes back two generations. Guided by his grandma, he has fond memories of foraging for semi precious stones in his hometown of country New South Wales.
In 2012, Jason began teaching himself how to preserve and pin various butterflies, moths and arachnids. A continued, self-driven education in entomology has lead Jason to work with museums across Australia and the USA, as well as private collectors, on various projects and additions.
Now living in Melbourne, Australia, Jason's art practise marries his love of Lapidary and Entomology into small scale sculptures enveloped in rich symbolism and archetypal meaning.
Having previously taught Entomology in Australia and internationally, Jason now brings his own series of Entomology workshops to the public, spreading the great wonder and happiness that working so closely with nature brings.
Classes and kits
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Reviews
(9)
Jenny Chan • Oct 2023
83 ClassBento workshops attended • 81 reviews
A beginner friendly class. This is my second time back as I was keen to learn more. Teacher Jason has a vast knowledge on entomology and he shares invaluable tips. We learnt about all the tools required, and he has a supply of butterflies available to pursue this as a hobby at home. You will learn several techniques for pinning butterflies. All instructions were clearly explained. We took home 4 prepared butterflies which can be encased in a display frame provided. Refreshments and food were provided throughout the day. A Sunday well spent.
Jenny Chan • Sep 2023
83 ClassBento workshops attended • 81 reviews
A fun and friendly class. Held in a venue close to train station and tram stop. Savoury and sweet croissants, fresh fruit, tea and coffee were served during the 5 hours. All materials were provided. It was creatively challenging and relaxing arranging the Peruvian butterflies. Our cheerful instructor, Jason offered great support to all attendees and provided easy to follow instruction. He is amazingly skilled in his field and was able to quickly repair any major mistake I made. I highly recommend you join this unique exploration of nature and art, you will be rewarded with this exquisite dome to take home.
Nova Stark • Jan 2023
2 ClassBento workshops attended
Video is clear and instructions are so easy to follow, I also enjoy that you get a cheat sheet on where to skip to on the video for certain parts.
Kit is beautifully wrapped and I love that everything is environmentally friendly.
I managed to pin all of these beetles for my first time. UwU
Elissa Hullah • Oct 2022
Great class for an introduction to entomology, had a good pace and gave a thorough overview of the processes involved with creating my own pieces.
Jason was personable and approachable, treated everyone in the class as individuals and it had a lovely energy being with others who you felt were engaged with the material.
The space was clean and comfortable, all tools and materials were supplied and Jason even provided an amazing home cooked lunch which we all shared around the table in a nice bonding experience.
Definitely worth the money - I’d recommend this class for anyone wanting to dive into entomology and have some cool specimens to show for your days effort. So happy with mine!
Thanks Jason!
Kate Lillie • Oct 2022
3 ClassBento workshops attended • 3 reviews
Great Class! The teacher Jason is knowledgable and personable and a great cook!
Class was paced perfectly and all materials organised and provided.
Had a lovely day chatting with other students and Jason while learning to make something beautiful. (In progress shot attached)
I will be back for more.
Natasha Coote • Oct 2022
Jason is one of the most lovely people I’ve encountered. Incredibly patient, witty and engaging.
Not only did I learn all the fundamentals of Entomology but I also became friends with everyone in the class over the lunch that Jason made himself - he truly went above and beyond to make us all feel welcome.
I’m feeling so positive after the day I spent at Violet Eyes and I can’t wait to return for another class in future.
