Our Story

Our journey began in 2018 when we hosted our first-ever event, "Bug Out Chicago", at the Ars Memoria Arts Gallery. The event was a huge success, attracting over 1500 guests who were able to tour our exhibit for free. Since then, we have been on a mission to promote the ethical treatment of insects by touring schools, park districts, and youth organizations. We firmly believe that insects play a crucial role in our ecosystem, and that it's our responsibility to educate the youth about their significance.

Today, The Insect Asylum is a museum and community center in Avondale, Chicago, that displays a collection of over 4,500 insects, over 40 species of live animals, and a variety of taxidermy. The museum has educational classes and arts events for both kids and adults, and regular events that incorporate nature and art.

Since opening its doors on earth day (April 22nd, 2022) for its first permanent location, The Insect Asylum has served over 20,000 customers. It's been almost 4 years since the inception of our museum, and we are proud to have accomplished so much in our time here. We have been overwhelmed by the support and encouragement we have received so far, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share our passion for insects with others. We look forward to continuing our journey with you and making a positive impact in our community.

Meet our Team

Our close-knit team of naturalists, educators and artists are dedicated to unveiling the wonders within in our museum walls. With a shared passion for biodiversity, we've curated a vibrant exhibit that showcase some of the rich tapestry of flora and fauna from around the world. From interactive events for kids, to fun and educational classes, our team is committed to fostering a profound connection with the natural world.

Founder & Artist

Nina Salem

As our founder, Nina has created a space for art, learning and acceptance to flourish. Her wish to create a space that celebrates animal science and mourtuary arts has allowed for The Insect Asylum to become what it is today! When she's not taking care of business, you can find her creating her own beautiful mortuary art pieces.

Social Media Manager / Lead Educator

Domingo Papalotl

As a lead educator, Domingo is passionate about teaching and developing programs that explore the intersection of natural history and art making. As the Social Media Manager, Domingo curates engaging content across all platforms. They manage our online presence, ensuring our message reaches and resonates with a diverse audience.

Social Media Celebrity

Sweet Baby Hazel

Hazel is our retired resident star, and due to her social media presence, many people come from all over just to gaze upon her beauty. Hazel is passionate about her impact on community outreach and education. She loves pets, cuddles, and a nice, soft places to hide.