Creating Cyanotypes with Christina Ryan

We're welcoming Christina Ryan for a special make and take workshop at our November meeting. BE SURE TO SIGN UP FOR THIS NOVEMBER MEETING WORKSHOP BY ( xxxxx9DATE). THE LINK IS IN THE NEWSLETTER EMAIL. THERE ARE NO EXTRA COSTS FOR THIS WORKSHOP.

Description: Using pre-treated fabric sheets, participants will learn everything they need to know about sun-printing chemistry as they begin their journey in to the fascinating world of cyanotype. A demonstration will be given on the process of coating fabric and/or paper with the solution. Students will explore developing cyanotype on fabric as well as paper sheets. At the end of the hands-on lecture, a handout will be given for further ideas and experimentation, as well as troubleshooting tips to take home.

What is Cyanotype? Cyanotype is the earliest form of alternative photography dating back to 1842 and is known for its distinctive Persian blue colour. Using the sun’s UV rays, artists are able to develop prints on a variety of surfaces. It is a fun and easy way to create unique and beautiful images very quickly.

Supplies to bring:

Objects that would create an interesting developed image. Anything that casts a shadow will work. For example:

• Feathers, lace, keys, leaves, lace, cut-outs, opaque stencils, etc. Feel free to raid your sewing room stash for interesting shapes!

• A piece of glass or plastic, 5”x7” (tape the edges in advance with masking tape to prevent cutting yourself when handling the glass) * Make sure you don’t use UV-resistant glass* Michael’s craft store and some Dollar Stores sell inexpensive 5”x7” clip frames which are a good size, and often second-hand stores sell inexpensive frames.

• A support which is the same size as the glass: can be thin Masonite, smooth mat board or cardstock. * Or the backing of the frame.

• 4 bulldog clips

• Scissors

Notes: The flora and fauna objects and negatives need to be held flat on the fabric to ensure a tight contact print. Empty picture frames with glass inserts work very well for this process.

Artist/ Instructor Biography: Christina is an artist who is skilled in many different mediums of art and has been teaching adults for more than 10 years. She focuses on techniques like cyanotype and alternative photography, photography, mixed media and visual storytelling. Her artistry began with telling people’s stories as an award-winning newspaper multimedia journalist for the past 20 years. Watching a person’s eyes light up with understanding as they learn to chase the light is why Christina teaches cyanotype and photography. Christina published a travel guide called ‘111 Things in Calgary You Must Not Miss’ with a colleague. When not occupied with teaching, and freelancing, she can be found capturing photographs in Alberta’s pristine backcountry, paddle boarding, silversmithing and creating beautiful cyanotypes.