Cyanotypes, Encaustic and Watercolor

This workshop takes place in NYC in the spring/summer when sun shines bright

Cyanotypes are a form of alternative photography developed by sunlight and made popular by Anna Atkins, a botanist whose brother-in-law, Sir John F. W. Herschel (1792–1871), who intended it for reproducing mathematical tables. Her book the earliest-known photographically illustrated book, Photographs of British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions (1843), used cyanotypes for both the images and type. It was also used for reproducing technical drawings, known as blueprints. Its name comes from the word “cyan” for the Greek word that means “dark blue.”

The cyanotype process is quite simple. It uses light-sensitive iron salts—potassium ferricyanide and ferric ammonium citrate—rather than light-sensitive silver salts. The image is produced through contact printing, by pressing a negative or object directly to the surface and exposing the paper to light. To develop the cyanotype, the paper is simply washed in plain water. The areas exposed to light become blue shadows and middle tones; the excess, unexposed iron salts are washed away, creating highlights. Most cyanotypes appear blue and white, the national colors of Greece.

Amateur photographers were able to use the cyanotype process to make prints at home, since a darkroom was not required.

Photography & Cyanotypes, CyclaDES

This workshop takes place in Greece

Join me on a captivating journey through Ios, Cyclades, my home island, where you'll discover stunning landscapes and historical sites, while perfecting your photography skills. Our small group tours, limited to 10 people.

For only 100 Euro per person, you'll receive a comprehensive package, including pick-up from the port or ferry terminal, travel arrangements to major points of interest on the island, and a cultural, historical, and geographic/natural explanation of each site from a native guide (my family has lived in this region for centuries). Our experienced professional photographer will teach you the principles of landscape photography, provide technical know-how, and review your shots to help you take stunning wide-angle panoramic shots, capture breathtaking sunsets, and ancient ruins at just the right time for the best light and atmospheric conditions.

We'll also accompany you on a walking tour to scenic and strategic points for taking superb photos. You'll have access to equipment that can be borrowed, including lenses, tripods, and more, to enhance your shots and create unforgettable memories of your journey through the Cyclades.

Additionally, Learn how to create beautiful Cyanotype prints using natural specimens and the sun in this workshop. We'll walk and pick specimens, compose them on cotton paper, and develop them under the Cycladic sun. You'll take away a unique creation as a token of your time on the island. The cost is an additional 60 Euro/$70 per person, and all materials are included.

Workshop Activities

I Get inspired by a presentation of different types of cyanotypes. Decide on a composition using florals and natural materials as well as everyday objects that you can forage or scavenge or bring with you for the workshop. Stencil variations and photo transparencies discussed.

II Develop the paper with solution. Chemical proportions and variations will be reviewed in a makeshift dark room. Techniques for adding layers and texture will be discussed, including adding soap bubbles, dyes, peroxide and others. Different effects by altering paper type and cotton content will be discusses.

III Exposing the print to sun and wash in cold water. Wait for it to dry.

IV Embellishing the print using encaustic medium to add texture and then applying gold watercolor and/or oil sticks to make the composition “pop”

Cost: $50 and includes:

-2 hours of instruction and demonstration

-all art materials including cotton rag paper/watercolor paper of various sizes

-embellishments

Each participants will walk away with a minimum of four prints of various sizes 4X4, 5X7, 8.5X11.

Workshop Activities:

I. Morning Early Light Tour: Capturing Aurora

• A. Dawn in Agia Theodoti

• B. Nature Hike through mountains capturing landscaped vistas

• C. Looking out for flora and fauna (goats and wild herbs)

• D. Koumbara Beach and St. John’s Church (one of the highest panoramic views of the island)

II. Afternoon Sunset Tour: Chora: Cats and Churches

• A. Paleokastro: a magical Byzantine fortress that has enchanting views (Alternatively, Pathos Sunset Lounge provides breathtaking sunset shots)

• B. Chora: meander the dizzying streets of the main town snapping up people shots, and of course, cats!

• C. We focus on architectural details and abstracting angles and curves of the many churches on the way

• D. To the summit to the Gremiotissa Church for a panoramic view of the purple sunsets.

Not included:

• A. Food and drink

• B. Souvenirs

• C. Camera, memory cards, and other personal equipment

Photography Walking Tour:

June 1 - September 30: $100 per tour

Cyanotype Workshop:

$60 with experienced instructors