Explore the extraordinary world of the blueprint photogram and use an early photographic technique invented in 1842 to create striking contemporary artworks. Discover how to create blueprint photograms (cyanotypes) on paper, cotton and silk. Explore how to achieve striking photographic effects and learn experimental techniques to print, develop and tone blueprints on a variety of surfaces.

This evocative photographic process is a simple technique for creating fascinating photo effects on a variety of surfaces.

Using plant materials, stencils and other found objects such as string, feathers, mesh or lace, you will create a series of imaginative experimental blueprint photograms on paper and fabric.

You will begin by trying out a number of different photograms on paper to help you understand the process and build a visual vocabulary, then move on to printing on a number of different natural fibre fabrics such as cotton, silk and viscose.

You will:

• Gain an understanding of the techniques and processes of blueprinting and gain the confidence to explore the potential of this art form.
• Be guided through the process of coating the paper and fabric.
• Learn how to expose the photogram in sunlight.
• Discover how to include and combine photogram images with text or hand drawn marks.
• Be encouraged to try different developing and toning techniques to alter the colour of the photogram.
• Leave with a practical understanding of the potential of the medium for future experimentation.

Included

The course fee includes the cost of providing all the photogram chemicals and toning solutions, plus six pieces of pre-coated fabric per student.

What students need to bring

• You are encouraged to bring in some of your own objects to create photograms with. Suitable items need to be fairly flat such as ribbon, string, leaves, feathers, etc. this is not essential as the tutor will provide plenty of material to print with.
• Rubber gloves
• Apron and covered footwear, with non-slip soles

Available to buy

Available from shop: Scissors A4 watercolour paper/other textured papers to experiment with (you will need at least 20 sheets)

Available from tutor: Additional pieces of pre-coated fabrics can be purchased from the tutor.

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm for registration
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included)
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential

Daily timetable
Course teaching 9.15am - 5pm (lunch included)
Dinner: from 6.30pm (included for residential students)
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed

Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm (lunch included)
Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am

Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required

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