Making Faces for the Dead

James Edward Smith Jr., an instructor at the Dallas Institute of Funeral Service, introduces restorative art, a skill to restore the facial features of deceased individuals for open casket viewings. The class involves students creating accurate sculptures of celebrities, enhancing their understanding of facial anatomy. Emphasis is placed on practice to improve proficiency. Handling trauma with care is crucial, akin to hospital care. Smith is passionate about providing families with a comforting memory picture when saying goodbye.

What is the expectation of families regarding the timing of restorative art procedures?

How does the instructor feel about the importance of restorative art for families?