Did you notice the guy in the window? (That's Art!) 

Art is a citizen with a great legacy in our community and the owner of Art's Taxidermy.

Art's Taxidermy is one of Cleveland, Ohio's historical businesses. For generations on the Near West Side, Art's Taxidermy has stuffed dead animals for hunters. Art, a Vietnam Veteran who served with the U.S. Marine Corps, has remained actively engaged in the community as a Precinct Leader for the Democratic Party, a Community Gardener, and as a Block Club participant. 

Driving down West 48th Street South of Clark, you will see the corner building that houses a museum of stuffed animals, snake skins, and countless awards for his career in Taxidermy.

Art is proud to be the first professional African American  taxidermist in the United States of America right here in Ohio. Moreover, he is proud of the years he provided training to other taxidermists through Art's School of Taxidermy until 2008.

Art can be seen throughout the "International Village" community of Cleveland's Ward 14 visiting community garden sites, working with community organizers to paint poles down streets, and keeping the neighborhood watch alive. It's always a pleasure to bump into Art around the community as he wears a smile and is always open to discussion about the world around him. While the history of his business is something that he delights in; remaining on top of vacant housing, special needs of families in his community, and ongoing development projects such as the new Thomas Jefferson Middle School keep him motivated.

While this business in currently not listed as a landmark; perhaps the City of Cleveland will add this deserving and Award Winning business to a list of Cleveland Landmarks. We are proud to share this vested citizen's story with REALNEO!