Description

Introducing SolarFast/Cyanotype workshop | Sunday 2  June | 2024 | 10.00 – 4.30

£60 Full/Keyholder member  |£70 Ordinary Member | £80 Non-member

This SolarFast / Cyanotype workshop is an introduction course. It is perfect for learning a new technique or for refreshing and extending your skills. No previous experience is necessary. It is a great way of ‘printing’ incredibly complex and detailed shapes without any drawing involved, just a sense of design and an interest in imagery.

Cyanotype photography is a camera-less technique using a light sensitive emulsion. SolarFast is a very similar technique and a coloured version of cyanotype. SolarFast may be used to create remarkably detailed photographs, photograms and shadow-prints on paper or fabric using UV light. SolarFast can be combined with Cyanotype.

The course will explore the creative possibilities through a range of  experimental pieces.

This light sensitive emulsion can be painted on papers or textiles. When dry it can be exposed to flat opaque ‘found’ objects. These can be made by exposing to sunlight/ or a ultra violet light source.  We have an exposure unit for controlled and predictable exposures for use in the studio.
There is an extraordinary range of source material that can be used to make images. A wide range of ‘found’ objects can be used exploiting texture and shape with great subtlety

• natural forms such as leaves, feathers and flowers
• feathers / buttons / jewellery / string / nets
• Cut paper shapes / ‘found ‘ paper shapes
• Laces and doilies
• Semi-transparent objects will also work but they do need to be flat and non sharp.
• Drawn / painted imagery on tracing paper or transparencies made on photocopiers or printers

Start collecting and bring along some interesting material. You are also welcome to bring along negative photographs / images printed onto acetate, or old negatives, as these will not be provided.

Textile artists may be interested to use it as a basis for further machine work/ appliqué and embroidery. SolarFast works particularly well on fabric. Feel free to bring along your own fabric, such a white t-shirt, cushion cover, scarf, etc, if you fancy this!

The course will cover

• How to mix the SolarFast / Cyanotype emulsions
• What are the most suitable papers and textiles to us
• Coating the substrates
• Exposure times and using the UV unit
• Washing out and developing
• Drying process

All materials will be provided but I suggest you bring with you an apron or overalls.

You can bring along a packed lunch. There are plenty of food outlets in Swansea Market or Tesco’s just across the main road if you prefer.

Kettle, fridge and microwave are available in the kitchen.

 

 

You can bring along a packed lunch or there are plenty of food outlets in Swansea Market or Tesco’s just across the main road if you prefer.

Kettle, fridge and microwave are available in the kitchen.