There is something so deeply beautiful about the Prussian blue tones of cyanotype. Technically speaking, the cyanotype process is based on the light sensitivity of iron salts, specifically the interaction between iron(III) salts and potassium ferricyanide to form the pigment Prussian blue (ferric ferrocyanide). It’s not the technical details that interest me, but the longing I feel when my eye catches the beautiful layered hues of a cyanotype. There’s magic in the process, a letting go in order to discover what evolves.

It was the following image that inspired me to play with cyanotypes again.

When I first joined The Art Lab with Amy Elizabeth, this image was one that she had recently created and I fell in love with it. I was inspired by how she cut and rearranged the cyanotype; all of the layers juxtaposed so beautifully. Amy is such a kind soul; generous with her time and knowledge. I immediately ordered cyanotype supplies and began to experiment. This lead me to #cyanotypesundays with her and other friends from The Art Lab. This became the most therapeutic way to play on dark winter Sunday afternoons. I pulled old photos from my portfolio to experiment with and set up a makeshift darkroom in my basement bathroom. From that space I cranked music and let my imagination run wild.

Not long thereafter, I signed up for a cyanotype workshop with Erin Patton McFarren at Aurora Photo Center where I’m a member. I was intrigued by Erin’s process and wanted to learn more. She creates experimental cyanotypes using the original 1846 recipe along rivers, lakes, and oceans in Northeastern Indiana, Miami Beach, and Brazil. Her portfolio is stunning and the workshop was incredible. Erin is a warmhearted, compassionate artist; open with her knowledge. The workshop was inspiring. We had the best time talking about our love of Prussian blue cyanotypes and the endless ways you can create with them. As a bonus, each workshop participant was given an extra piece of cloth napkin to take with them for future cyanotype creating. I tucked mine away waiting for the right moment.

Fast forward to this past spring when my family and I traveled to Florida. I carefully packed the cloth Erin had given me, pretreated with cyanotype chemicals. I also packed pretreated watercolor paper and trays to rinse everything. It was tricky, but I managed to pull it all together. Once there, I couldn’t wait to make my way to the ocean to play!

I began by wandering the beach looking for items to layer onto my paper and cloth; it was meditative. I walked along the ocean edge noticing different textures and shapes. I gathered shells, seaweed, and driftwood. I was seeking items I could layer and trying to imagine what might look interesting on the cyanotype paper. After gathering a haul of items, I carefully pulled the pretreated paper and cloth out of the light sensitive bags and went to work.

After assembling everything, I waited. People walking by stopped to chat and ask questions. I shifted items around the paper. I waited some more and then it was time.

I pulled everything from the paper and cloth. Brushed them off and gave them a quick shake. The watercolor paper went into the trays filled with saltwater and I carried the cloth into the ocean.

Once the cyanotype was rinsed, I left everything out to dry in the shade on the porch.

This ocean experience was such a contrast to playing in the darkroom of my basement. One felt wild and free; immersive with the environment. I could hear the waves crashing as I assembled the materials and it was fun to talk to passersby. In the darkroom, there was solitude. It lended itself to a more calculated approach with lights and timers. I coould blast music. Both are wondrous in their own way; an ebb and flow to each.

I think what I love the most about cyanotypes is allowing myself the freedom to let go and trust the process. I appreciate how meditative it is. It is the detail of each piece that pulls me in and captivates me. The various blue hues and tones are gorgeous…a sea of beauty.

I’ve loved creating with cyanotypes and I’m so grateful for the community and friendships I’ve made along the way. Be sure to check out The Art Lab with Amy Elizabeth here to see all of the amazing opportunities unfolding plus her Post Processing Podcast! Don’t miss Erin Patton McFarren here to purchase prints, find workshops, and exhibitions! If you’re near Indianapolis, you will want to check out Aurora Photo Center here to find the latest in workshops, exhibitions, prints, social gatherings, and darkroom!

My mind has been drifting back to these cyanotypes as of late with new ideas sparking in my mind. I’m feeling that old, familiar call to play. Join me and share what you create!

~Laura