Experimental Sun Printing for Adults

Venue: Christchurch Mansion

Join us on Saturday 18 July from 10:30am – 2pm to learn how to create one of the earliest forms of photography – a cyanotype or ‘blueprint’.

By placing materials such as dried flowers onto a specially coated light-sensitive paper or fabric you will create beautiful images as the sunlight causes a chemical reaction that changes the colour. This is where history, art and science meet and the results are magical!

You don’t need any prior skills; just bring along an enthusiasm to get creative and a willingness to experiment, embracing success and failure as part of the process. You will experiment with different objects, transparencies, development times, colours, toning and textures, taking home a set of small prints and a one-off cotton tote bag designed by you. All materials and full guidance are provided. This event is suitable for ages 18+.

Please bring an apron or wear clothes that you don’t mind getting a little splash of the solutions used on (chemicals that turn blue when mixed and hydrogen peroxide – mess is unlikely, but it is better to be prepared).

Light refreshments provided but bring your own packed lunch or you can visit the café (break for lunch 12.00-12.30).

This event will take place in the Lower Tudor Room on the ground floor of the Mansion.

Visit the Colchester & Ipswich Museums website to find out more