The Magic of Cyanotype

Unlocking the Magic of Cyanotype!

Dive into the enchanting world of cyanotype, an accessible and captivating photographic printing process that uses the power of the sun or UV light to create beautiful Prussian blue images. This extended intensive workshop provides ample time for in-depth exploration, experimentation, and personalized guidance, perfect for beginners and those looking to deepen their understanding of alternative photographic techniques.

In this hands-on session, you’ll delve deeper into the fundamentals of cyanotype, from meticulously preparing your paper to mastering various exposure and development techniques for unique results. Discover the joy of creating ethereal photograms using natural materials and explore nuanced approaches to printing from negatives, including achieving different contrasts and tonal ranges. Using readily available and non-toxic chemicals, you’ll witness the magic unfold as your images emerge under UV light.

Whether you’re an artist, crafter, nature lover, or simply curious, this workshop will provide you with a strong foundation and inspire you to continue your cyanotype journey.

What You’ll Learn:

• Deep Dive into the Cyanotype Process: Explore the chemistry and history behind this fascinating technique in greater detail.
• Mastering Paper Preparation: Learn advanced techniques for safely and evenly coating various types of paper with the cyanotype solution.
• The Art of Photograms: Explore creative arrangements of natural materials and objects, understanding how different textures and opacities translate into unique silhouettes.
• Nuances of Printing from Negatives: Discover techniques for optimizing digital and film negatives for cyanotype printing, including contrast adjustments and dodging/burning concepts.
• Advanced Exposure Techniques: Learn to fine-tune exposure times based on light conditions and desired results, including troubleshooting common exposure issues.
• Refined Development and Fixing: Master the development and rinsing process for optimal blue tones and learn about archival considerations.
• Introduction to Toning: Explore various safe and accessible toning methods to alter the color of your cyanotype prints.
• Troubleshooting and Best Practices: Gain valuable insights for achieving consistent results and addressing common challenges in cyanotype printing.

Break: A 30-minute break will be scheduled after the third hour, allowing participants to relax and refresh.

All consumable supplies will be provided. Participants are encouraged to bring a wider variety of interesting objects for photograms and digital or film negatives they wish to work with.

By the end of this extended intensive, you’ll not only have a collection of unique cyanotype prints but also a deeper understanding of the process, greater confidence in your technique, and inspiration for future creative explorations in the captivating world of blue.

About the instructor:

Jacoub Reyes is an artist and public academic based in Florida. His artistic research centers his Caribbean and Pakistani background as a relational point which he utilizes to expand on themes of colonialism, social response, and ecosystems as seen in his work with The IEA, Ma’s House, Latinx Project, and CENTRO. His projects with Alfred University, Hunter College, UCSF, and other prestigious institutions have garnered international acclaim. He graduated from the University of Central Florida receiving a BFA in Drawing and Printmaking. He went on to receive certifications in sustainable materials from Parsons. The intersections found in his work have allowed him to travel globally, engaging in lectures, workshops, and community events with Southern Graphics Council International, Mid America Print Council, Frontera Galeria Urbana, Museum of Latin American Art and others. Notable awards and fellowships include the Center for Craft’s Teaching Artist Cohort, South Florida Cultural Consortium Grant, and The Puffin Foundation, among others. Reyes is currently an Oolite Arts Live.In.Art Resident, the Artistic Director for the City of Boynton Beach’s Quantum Eco-Park, and the President of the Florida Printmakers Society.