.

What is cyanotype?

Cyanotype is a photographic printing process that produces a cyan-blue print. Its history dates back to the 19th century having been invented in 1842. I discovered it by pure accident one day when I was trying to print a bandana and was tired of sending my designs out to be professionally printed. It was a revelation! I could take an idea from the first moment of inspiration to finished piece in the space of hours rather than weeks. I have always had a passion for vintage ceramics and began combining images of these with vintage photographs to create my first pillows - a set on the theme of ‘men in love’. I wanted to create something timeless and visceral; something that was soulful, ironic, layered, moody and romantic. Most people know cyanotype from architectural blueprints. However it gained popularity with photographers and artists who appreciate the vibrant shades of blue it creates and its accessibility. The process involves coating paper or fabric, with a solution which when dry is light sensitive. By placing an object or printed film on top a print is produced . The results can range from a direct copy to a painterly rendition depending on exposure time, fabric type and how the solution is diluted. No two prints will be exactly the same and there are variations in shading and depth of color. There is a degree of randomness to the results which I find charming and unexpected. The process feeds into a growing need for more individual and craft like finishes - to a return to the analog and a more 'slow’ creative process. Cyanotype works especially well on naturals fabrics such as linen, cotton and hemp. It is also gentle enough to use on up cycled vintage fabrics such as damask and homespun linen which - wherever possible - I try to use.