Cyanotypes with the Sun: Creative Practice with Place & Presence

Making cyanotypes, one of the oldest forms of photography, is like dancing with the sun. This sun or UV photography allows for playfulness and serendipity as we engage with nature at Ghost Ranch. Cyanotypes allow us to create gradations of beautiful cyan blue with plants and other objects.

We will make a number of cyanotype images on both paper and fabric, using large scale photo negatives, drawn negatives, and physical objects. During walks at the ranch we will gather natural objects such as grasses and leaves that can be used for contact prints, and create sketches and photos that can be used to create our own negatives. Materials, words and images can be layered, creating a collage effect. You will work with cyanotype emulsion and treat your own fabric and papers for making prints. All materials will be supplied, but you are encouraged to bring clothing or other fabric items for printing on, as well as any special objects and photos from home for making prints.

Ways we will explore this versatile medium:

Make a plein aire cyanotype while hiking at Ghost Ranch

Print a photo negative from a photo image you provide

Bleaching and toning to create sepia effects, and other color processes

Printing on clothing and weaving with cyano and natural objects

Go large! Choreograph a 5×5 foot fabric piece, using the other artists as part of your creative team.

Working back into our prints using various color media, as well as hand and machine sewing and collage.

This class will explore extending cyanotype creativity in many ways, so if you have taken a previous class, this is for you! AND, it will be fun and accessible for newcomers to the process or folks with little or no art experience as well!