Sir John Herschel (1792 – 1871) discovered this beautiful and simplistic printing process in 1842. Preceded by the Daguerreotype and Calotype processes, it was the 3rd successful and non-silver photographic process invented in 1842. Cyanotype prints are archival, and render images in delicate monochrome tones of Prussian blue. Sir Herschel’s photographs from the 1840s still survive to this day.

Cyanotype is often the first alternative process tried by artists, and is noted for its simplicity, cost-effectiveness and safety. It is an immensely satisfying process with few limitations and restrictions – only creative freedom! Although the emphasis of this workshop focuses on the Cyanotype process it functions a dual purpose by exposing participants to the expressive world of alternative and historical photographic printmaking. Fused with history, theory and a strong practical component, participants are guided through the mixing of chemistry, paper choices, coating techniques, negative options, and processing steps. These topics are covered in detail and are closely related to most of the iron-based and silver hand-applied alternative processes.

You will make two Cyanotype prints during this half-day workshop, a creative and historical photogram, as well a photographic image. For this workshop we require an A4 digital photograph to be emailed to us a week prior to the workshop. This workshop is suitable for ages 12 and up, beginners, as well as artists exploring alternative and historical printing methods.

Duration: 1 Day
Time: 8-30am to 3-00pm
Class Size: Max 8