Join Mary Anne Barkhouse, selected artist for Ādisōke, for a morning of photographic art at SPAO. In this workshop, participants will be guided through the process of making a sun print (also known as cyanotype) on their choice of fabric or paper, with visual elements of their own choosing.
Cyanotypes have been used for art and reprography (blended word for reproduction and photography) alike since the discovery of this photographic process by Sir John Herschel in 1842. This technique, which involves laying an object or negative on paper or fabric coated with a solution, uses only sun and water as the catalysts for creating a deep and permanent blue image.
Inspired by the history of the medium, as well as the elemental nature of the process, Mary Anne Barkhouse has included cyanotypes in her installations for decades as it enables her to integrate a variety of imagery from negatives to plant matter to found objects, as a means of developing a narrative around our relationship to the natural world.
All materials will be provided. However, if participants have large format negatives, pressed flowers or leaves, or other objects suitable for producing a photogram that they would like to work with, they are welcome to bring these along.
This program is a preview of the hands-on, creative and inclusive programming that will be offered at Ādisōke, future home of OPL’s Central Branch and LAC’s public services. Have a look at the Ādisōke website to see the spaces and vision for Ādisōke.
NO food or drink will be permitted during the workshop, due to the chemicals being worked with.
Limited street parking is available, but there is no parking available at the venue. Consider public transit options, if possible.
This program is brought to you in partnership between the City of Ottawa, Library and Archives Canada, and Ottawa Public Library.