Safari Studios Moves to Double Its Size

SAN ANGELO, TX -- Safari Studios Taxidermy has outgrown its location on U.S. 67 S. at Twin Buttes Marina Park Rd. and is moving to Grape Creek.  

According to owner Jimmy Fontenot, the taxidermy shop will be moving into the former Fisher’s Food Mart building on U.S. 87 N. in Grape Creek.  “I’m excited about the move. We’re going to double in size and be able to serve our customers.  Safari Studios is moving into a totally remodeled 13,000 square ft facility to better handle and service our ever growing clientele. It is because of our trusted clientele we are able to expand.” Fontenot said in an interview Thursday.  

Fontenot started the taxidermy shop 25 years ago in a 1,600 sq. ft. building.  He has expanded three times eventually reaching 7,000 sq. ft. currently. The completely remodeled facility in Grape Creek will be over 13,000 sq. ft.  “We have five taxidermists and twelve support staff including myself.” Fontenot said.

Safari Studios caters to clients who harvest exotic trophies.  The studio has a steady stream of safaris from several countries in Africa and also from exotic ranches in Texas.  Fontenot says they also have a lot of traditional work as well.

The new location is on the access road along U.S. 87.  Fontenot says parking and delivery access will be better.  “Truck access will be much better because it has a much larger parking lot.  Everything about the new building will be better from a business and client perspective.”  said Fontenot.

"We have steadily grown our business on honesty and integrity and have a staff of some of the most talented artists in the country.  We stand behind our product and service 100% ."

Fontenot, who lived in Grape Creek and went to elementary school there, says the move is expected to be completed in September.  Workers are currently remodeling the inside of the building.