Cyanotypes

One of the best things about AUP is the opportunity to explore disciplines beyond your own course. They run taster sessions where you can be introduced to a wide range of workshops and techniques, and this was one I chose simply because it looked fun: cyanotypes in the photography department.

As we were working as a group rather than individually, what we could do was guided by the wishes of the majority. All of our samples were exposed to the UV light for the same length of time. Given more time and freedom, I would have experimented with different exposure lengths to create a wider range of blue tones, but our opportunities were limited.

Even so, I loved creating these prints. Looking back, I wish I had spent more of my own time exploring the process. Unfortunately, the lack of time and the additional cost of materials meant it never developed into a hobby, as I had to concentrate on other projects during the year.

Even now, the incredible indigo blues that can be achieved on fabric make me want to return to cyanotypes and experiment further. I think the potential for using the process on clothing is enormous, I just need to find the time.