Cyanotypes are an analogue photography technique dating back to the 19th century, they only create blue prints, and this where the architectural term 'blueprint' comes from. The chemicals are mixed and then painted on to paper, it is a light sensitive process so this needs to be done in the dark. For these cyanotype works I use large negatives which are printed on acetate, and layer these with real objects, often flowers and grasses which come together by exposing the layered image to UV light. In the summer I use the light directly from the sun, or an exposure unit in winter. The bright blue of cyanotypes can be toned to dark grey or sepia using natural materials such as tea. In the final steps I add brushstrokes of watercolour, bronze powders, or gold leaf to the images.
Khali
Toned cyanotype, 69 x 52 cm
Original
Khali
Toned cyanotype
Sirona
Toned cyanotype with 22 carat gold leaf, 93 x 38 cm
Original + Artist Proof
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