Join floral artist Lisa Shepherd in an introduction to the historic alternative photographic process of cyanotype printing which is a form of camera-less photography.
After a quick introduction to the history of cyanotypes and how they are created, you will be shown how to safely mix and coat paper and then expose your design with ultraviolet light to produce beautiful Prussian blue-coloured artworks. You will be guided in design composition and shown how to create visually pleasing artwork step-by-step.
You'll learn all aspects of the process including making photograms from pressed flowers and plant cuttings as well as using feathers, lace, doilies, stencils and digital negatives. Be thrilled when you expose your image to reveal beautiful images, it never fails to delight.
You are encouraged to bring along your favourite flowers to print with or something special from your garden. Delicate flowers and leaves are best to print with. Fresh flowers can be used but they should not be too thick and bulky as they need to go under glass.
You may also choose to print with digital negatives if you prefer or any other object that will create a negative image, please bear in mind that ideally, it needs to go under a sheet of glass so shouldn't be too bulky.
You will get to print two pieces of artwork to take home for yourself or as a gift for someone special.
If you enjoy photography and working with flowers and plant materials this two-hour workshop is a perfect opportunity for you to learn this beautiful process in a relaxed and friendly environment. It is an introduction to cyanotypes and will give you the skills to work independently at home afterwards.
Knowledge required
Beginner-friendly. No prior knowledge is required.
What you'll get
Make two pieces of artwork on paper to take home along with comprehensive notes
Light refreshments will be available
What to bring
An apron/old shirt
Objects to print with
Flowers/plant material, ideally pressed
Digital negatives, stencils, lace etc.
A hat for sunny days, though a gazebo will be set up in the garden to provide cover from the sun if it is particularly hot and sunny
Your creativity and a warm smile as you discover this magical process!