A magical morning of art, play and creative discovery!

A playful introduction to the magic of printing with sunlight!

Join artists Mandy Johnston and Adéle Prins for a relaxed, experimental morning at Mothership Studios in Fish Hoek.

Discover the beautiful blue world of cyanotype, one of the earliest photographic processes, using sunlight and light-sensitive chemicals to create unique prints.

What will we do?

Discover the magic of cyanotype printing while learning the techniques behind this fascinating photographic process!

We'll guide you through the entire process, from mixing the chemicals and coating your own paper to preparing compositions, conducting exposure tests, exposing your prints to UV light, and washing and developing your final images.

Experiment with botanicals, seaweed, lace and found objects to create striking compositions, exploring shapes, textures, transparencies and negative images.

You'll create your own collection of cyanotype prints, on paper and fabric. We'll also introduce you to toning techniques, showing you how to transform traditional cyanotype blue into a range of beautiful alternative tones.

Expect plenty of creative play, unexpected discoveries and beautiful surprises!

What's included?

• Watercolour paper and cloth for experimenting
• All chemicals and printing equipment
• A selection of botanical and interesting objects
• Creative guidance throughout with very experienced cyanotype artists
• Drinks and light snacks

What should you bring?

You're welcome to bring leaves, flowers, grasses, lace, seaweed, feathers or other interesting objects to experiment with.

Please bring an apron and wear comfortable clothes.

No experience needed — just curiosity and a willingness to play!

Good to know

Places are limited, so early booking is recommended.

This workshop will go ahead regardless of the weather! Cyanotypes can be printed in sunshine or under cloudy skies, although exposure times may be longer. If there's insufficient sunlight, we'll use UV lights to ensure the printing fun continues.

A little history

In the 1840s, botanist and photographer Anna Atkins used cyanotype to create beautiful impressions of seaweed, producing what is widely recognised as the world's first photographically illustrated book.

Come and discover the magic of sunlight, shadows and beautiful blue prints — and take home your own experimental artworks!

Presented by Mothership & Prinsdesign