Cyanotype Workshop for Beginners

Join photographer and cyanotype artist Sara for this workshop introducing you to cyanotypes. From a blank start you will be taken step by step through the process of creating your own light sensitive paper, then composing your pieces using natural foraged materials to finally exposing and revealing your images.

The cyanotype is a photographic printing process that produces blue prints using coated paper and daylight. The process was discovered by the scientist and astronomer Sir John Herschel in 1842..the original blue print. This simple method of sun printing has been used ever since, developing in forms and styles with many photographers and artists around the globe.

The workshop will take place in the 100sqm converted craft barn with stunning views of the open Nottinghamshire countryside of Hanwell Wine Estate. The setting provides the perfect space to relax and engage in your passion while learning new useful skills.

What you will learn:

Guided by expert tutor and teacher Sara she will take you through the steps of how to:

- Introduction to the basics of cyanotype and tools & materials you will need, and be using on the day
- Discuss composing an image and a quick forage in the grounds for some source materials
- Plan and compose our pieces
- Create our light sensitive papers, and create your pieces
- Expose the images ( hopefully) in daylight. A UV light will be on stand by!
- Whilst the images exposing , time for a break and Sara will demo further cyanotype examples
- Once exposed images will be washed , and ready to dry
- If time allows we will then look at some other examples and ideas that you can explore with the cyanotype method
- Images will need to then be stored flat for transport home ideally pressed for a day before mounting
Sara suggests an old diary, sketch pad or similar, that will not mark the picture
Who is the workshop for: No prior knowledge is required, this course is designed for beginners or those wishing to learn the art of cyanotype.

What is included: Refreshments and materials will be provided for creating (one A6 art piece with a card mount and envelope, and one A5 piece).

What you need to bring: You will need to bring an apron to protect your clothes from the chemicals and we advise you bring something flat to take your work home with.