Embracing the Unusual: A Look Inside Black Moth in Tulsa
A Unique Destination in Tulsa
Located at 1142 S Harvard Ave., Black Moth is not your typical gift shop—it’s a treasure trove for those curious about the natural world. Opened in 2020, this eclectic shop embodies a fusion of museum and gift store, inviting visitors to explore curiosities that range from the bizarre to the beautiful.
The Vision Behind Black Moth
Owner Maris Blanchard started Black Moth as a concept in 2014, but it wasn’t until 2020 that she transformed her vision into a physical space. Blanchard describes her shop as “a natural history museum slash gift shop,” where everything is for sale. She has meticulously curated a collection that includes exotic insects, rocks, minerals, and fossils, alongside an impressive array of taxidermy.
An Inventory Like No Other
When stepping into Black Moth, customers are immediately greeted by a range of striking and whimsical displays. From raccoons posed playing cards to a squirrel paddling a canoe, each piece tells a story. The shop features stuffed mice, little ducklings, and snakes preserved in jars, creating a unique shopping experience that goes beyond typical gift shop offerings. Bone jewelry and fossils further emphasize the store’s commitment to showcasing nature’s wonders in an ethical and sustainable manner.
Heritage and Inspiration
Blanchard’s passion for the unusual is rooted in her family history. Growing up with a great-grandmother who was full-blooded Cherokee, she was instilled with an appreciation for the natural world from a young age. “I grew up never thinking bones, bugs, or dead things were strange,” she reflects. This upbringing shaped her perspective and ultimately influenced her career path.
Ethical Sourcing Practices
One of the core philosophies at Black Moth is ethical sourcing. Blanchard ensures that all taxidermy pieces are obtained from old collections, population control efforts, or animals that died of natural causes. By prioritizing sustainability, she aims to foster a deeper connection between the community and nature, encouraging patrons to engage with the natural world in meaningful ways.
Engaging the Community
Beyond its unique inventory, Black Moth is committed to education. The shop hosts public classes focused on various aspects of natural history. Offerings include insect pinning, taxidermy, insect cloches, and jewelry making. These classes provide a hands-on opportunity for individuals to learn more about the subjects they are fascinated by. Interested participants can easily sign up for classes by joining the store’s email list via its website, shopblackmoth.com.
Open Daily for Exploration
Black Moth welcomes visitors seven days a week, inviting everyone to explore its diverse collection. With everything inside available for purchase, each visit offers a new opportunity to find unique items that speak to your interests. Whether you’re an avid collector, a curious tourist, or someone simply intrigued by the extraordinary, Black Moth offers a captivating escape from the everyday.
