Pressed by the Sun

A Hands-On Cyanotype Workshop

Saturday, September 26 • 1:00 PM
☀️ Celebrate World Cyanotype Day!

What happens when you combine sunlight, nature, a little science, and creativity? You get cyanotype!

Join us for a unique, hands-on afternoon where you'll discover the magic of one of photography's oldest printing processes. Long before digital cameras and smartphones, artists and photographers were using sunlight to create striking blue-and-white images—and you'll get to try the process for yourself!

Cyanotyping dates back to 1842, when English scientist and astronomer Sir John Herschel discovered the process. The technique quickly found an unexpected artistic use when botanist Anna Atkins began creating beautiful cyanotype impressions of algae and plants. Her work is considered one of the earliest examples of using photography to document the natural world, and she helped turn cyanotype into an art form.

Now it's your turn to make your own sun prints!

During this workshop, you'll experiment with flowers, leaves, botanicals, textures, and found objects, arranging them on light-sensitive paper before exposing your designs to the sun. Then comes the magic—watching your prints develop into that unmistakable cyan blue.

✨ You'll get to:

• Learn the fascinating history behind cyanotype
• See how sunlight can be used to create photographic prints
• Experiment with botanicals, textures, and everyday objects
• Create multiple unique cyanotype pieces
• Play with layering, composition, and exposure
• Take home your finished artwork

And because we're celebrating a special day of art, we'll make it extra cozy with cider and donuts to enjoy while you create!

No photography or art experience is necessary. Just bring your curiosity and let the sun do the rest.