I make original cyanotype prints, cards and collages based on the traditional method with a modern twist using botanicals collected from local woods.
Herschel invented the technique in the 1840s whereby a light-sensitive solution is applied to paper, then a composition is placed on top and exposed to sunlight. It produces white silhouettes on a deep (Prussian) blue print.
I stumbled over cyanotypes and the pioneering work of Anna Atkins, considered to be the first female photographer, while researching for a book and dabbled a little in the dark art of cyanotypes a couple of years ago whilst in Bath. We moved back to Kenilworth in 2018 (loooooooong story for another day) and after a major refurb, struggled to find some affordable wall art for the hall, I rummaged in the old shed for my box of chemicals and set to work to create my own. I started a fresh collection of dried botanicals, mixed up the chemicals, coated the watercolour paper, placed on the composition and ‘cooked’ outside until they turned blue. This summer there was plenty of UV to go around. My collection grew. Prints of giant alliums, ivy, cranesbill leaves, meadowflowers ... You name it. I’ve pressed it into service, as it were.
I made so many, I decided to sell them and created BlueFernPrints. I now make all sorts of prints, including ‘wet' cyanotypes which involve adding all manner of ingredients (salt, turmeric, soap, citric acid) to create ethereal marbling patterns in the background. This brings a certain amount chaos into the mix, meaning that every print is different, which is part of their charm.
Some prints I frame in upcycled vintage frames of all shapes and sizes that I find in local charity shops. I’ve also created original and printed blank cards for all occasions. I have some items on Folksy and the rest I sell either from this blog or at local art shows. Do get in touch if you have any queries or commissions via pamkelt@gmail.com Pam Kelt
Links
https://linktr.ee/bluefernprints
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