This was a 2-day workshop held at the Metchosin International Summer School of the Arts.

Cyanotypes are the oldest form of photography, first used to document plant specimens by Victorian botanists. These camera-less images are a simple, safe, and ecologically friendly technique that encourages experimentation and spontaneity. Participants made cyanotype prints from locally gathered plants, experimenting with three different techniques. They learned the basic chemistry required to prepare surfaces for cyanotype printing, exposure timings and methodologies, experimental approaches, and developing, toning, and drying prints.

The first day of the workshop was devoted to making both traditional and contemporary cyanotypes. The second day was an opportunity for participants to explore the techniques of their interest with the instructor’s support. The workshop ended with a sharing and talking about results.