Beginners Cyanotype Workshop: Simply Blue

Join floral artist Lisa Shepherd in an introduction to the historic alternative photographic process of Cyanotype printing which is a form of cameraless photography.

Discovered in 1842 by Sir John Herschel the process explores the use of sunlight and shadows which are cast on treated light-sensitised paper which results in beautiful Prussian blue and white images. The first photographic book was actually made by botanist Anna Atkins during the Victorian era when she documented British algae and ferns using the cyanotype process.

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 to ultraviolet light to produce blue and white coloured art. You will be guided in design composition and shown how to create visually pleasing artwork step-by-step.

You will 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.

We will discuss pressing your own flowers at home and how to preserve them for future work. You are encouraged to bring along your favourite flowers to print with or something special from your garden. Fresh flowers can be used but they should not be too thick and bulky as they need to go under glass; this is when pressed give better results. You will get to print three pieces on paper and create an artwork on fabric.

If you enjoy photography and working with flowers and plant material this four-hour workshop is a perfect opportunity for you to learn this beautiful process in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Morning tea will be provided but please bring your own lunch and inform me of any specific dietary requirements.

Bring your creativity and a warm smile as you discover this magical process!

• Three prints on paper and one print on fabric to take home.
• Morning tea.
• Comprehensive notes to take home.

• An apron or old shirt, objects to print with and a notebook.
• There will be lots of items available to use during the class but if you have any specific flowers or objects that you would like to use for printing please feel free to bring them with you.
• Please bring your own lunch. Morning tea will be provided along with tea/coffee and cold drinks.
• Please bring a hat and sunscreen.