Botanical Blueprints: Cyanotype Printmaking from Nature
June 28 @ 10:00 am - June 29 @ 4:00 pm
$280.00
Learn the art of camera-less photography, and explore the poetic possibilities of nature-based image making. In this hands-on workshop, participants will collect and prepare plant specimens, coat paper with light-sensitive chemistry, and harness the power of sunlight to produce stunning blue-toned prints. This meditative and experimental process invites a deeper connection with nature while offering a unique approach to visual storytelling.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Gather at Cedar North and begin the day with some introductions. Ali will give an overview of the weekend’s project, and some context for the craft of cyanotype printmaking. You’ll have some time to dream about project design, taking a walk through the woods to gather materials before a lunch break. After the break, you’ll return to prepare the plant specimens and begin to learn the process of printmaking. Finding a good place to pause, you’ll gather in reflection before closing the day out.
Day 2: On the second day, students will return to continue their process of printmaking. With guided demonstration, lectures, and hands-on experience, students will craft prints that tell a story, leaving with beautifully printed pieces and the foundational skills to continue exploring cyanotype printmaking. Class will end with the opportunity to share pieces and reflect on the experience.
What you get from the class:
- A look at plant specimens through the lens of a printmaker
- An introduction to the chemical processes involved in cyanotype printmaking
- Experience making and developing your own prints
- The foundational skills necessary to continue your individual exploration of the craft
Meet Your Instructor:
Ali Lapetina
Ali Lapetina (she/they) is a visual storyteller, teaching artist, and community organizer based in Detroit. For more than 12 years, she has led arts programming and worked in partnership with communities to offer workshops in printmaking and photography. She is the Founder and Executive Director of Women of Banglatown, a community arts nonprofit that provides free art, nature and well-being workshops and leadership opportunities for first-generation and immigrant girls and women. Ali is also the co-founder of Little Forrest Cabin an off-grid experience and artist retreat nestled on 5 acres, where she provides art supplies to encourage guests to explore self-expression and deepen their connection to nature.
Looking Closely:
Nature is full of intricate detail, patterns, and designs. When we stop to take it in, and really look, we see things we may not notice as we go about our more fast-paced lives. Cyanotype printmaking, the earliest form of photography, encourages us to slow down and look closely. When we do this, we not only learn about the natural world, but ourselves; and, through this process we can record those truly magical elements of nature.
Green Door classes are immersive and intentionally long. We find that over prolonged time together, students form deeper bonds with each other, the craft, and their instructor for an overall more impactful experience. Even if you are a Traverse City local, the intention is that these classes feel a bit like a retreat away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you are visiting from afar, the experience can be even deeper.
Class Details:
Where is the class held?: This class will be held at the Cedar North Classroom, where you’ll have access to inspiring natural surroundings, and a collaborative space for learning.
Cost: $280 (includes a $30 materials fee: includes all necessary tools and materials)
Date/Time: June 28th and 29th @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm each day
Prerequisites/Skill Level/Age Requirements:
- No prior experience required.
- Ages 18+
Booking Information and Policies:
What happens after I book the class?: After you book, we will send you a confirmation email that you are IN! A week out from the class, we will send you an email with more details about our meeting locations and some housekeeping items.
Want to make sure you have all of the information before you dive in? Here’s our cancelation policy: We understand that plans change, and we do our best to accommodate while honoring the time, energy, and resources that go into preparing for each class.
Cancellations made more than 14 days before the class start date Receive a full refund, minus a $25 administrative fee. This fee helps cover the cost of filling your spot. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer refunds for cancellations made less than 14 calendar days before class begins.
At this time, we are not able to offer:
• Course credit
• Transfers to other courses
This policy allows us to keep class sizes small and intimate, while minimizing pressure to increase overall course costs.
If the class is canceled by the school: In the event of inclement weather or other disruptions, we will issue a full refund and do our best to offer a reschedule option.
Policies:
Go for it! If you love taking a walk through the woods, describe yourself as a photographer, or have ever wanted to see magic happen in real life, this is the class for you!