Winter Cyanotypes
Come and experience proof that the sun is still shining, even in the darkness of a Northern Michigan winter. 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.
Day 1: We’ll begin by gathering and grounding ourselves in the background and basics of Cyanotype Printmaking. We’ll take a walk outside to gather elements for printmaking before trying out a few techniques all together. There will be a break for lunch, and students will return for more independent exploration.
Day 2: Coming back together for a second day, students will deepen their understanding of the craft and several other applications of the chemistry for Cyanotype printmaking. A balance of lecture, demonstration, and hands-on practice will fill out the second day of learning. There will be time to reflect and share pieces before heading home!
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 opportunties 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.
Class Details:
Where is the class held?: This class will be held at Green Door Folk School in Cedar, MI, a place that so readily lends itself to community in crafting.
Visiting from out of town?: Surrounding Green Door Folk School is Cedar North of J2 Farms. Cedar North is dedicated to enriching the world through arts and agriculture. Stay in the airbnb…steps from the classroom, art studio, and farm!
Date/Time: January 24th and 35th @ 10:30 am – 4:30 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 find yourself longing for the sun in the winter, collect things from the ground as you walk outside, or thrived in middle school science class, this is the class for you!