September 12, 26, October 10
10:00am - 12:30pm
2.5 Hour sessions
Discover the beauty of one of the world's oldest photographic printing processes in this three-part cyanotype workshop series led by photographer and visual artist Amy Saville. Using a light-sensitive solution, natural botanicals, and the power of sunlight, you'll create stunning blue-and-white prints inspired by the gardens around you.
Each class begins with an introduction to the cyanotype process before students are invited to explore the beautiful grounds of McKee Botanical Garden to gather leaves, flowers, and other natural materials for their designs. Students are also welcome to bring their own specimens to print with. Translucent materials such as snake skin, butterfly wings (ethically sourced), lace, feathers, and delicate seed pods can reveal beautiful detail, while opaque objects will print only as silhouettes - so keep the shape of the leaves and botanicals you choose in mind. Throughout the series, participants will create artwork on premium watercolor paper, a cotton tote bag, and wearable natural-fiber clothing.
No prior experience is necessary - just a willingness to experiment, slow down, and embrace the unexpected. Making a cyanotype print requires a bit of patience and a lot of magic, and no two are ever alike. Amy encourages students to release expectations of perfection, embrace experimentation, and fully tap into the creative flow state. The results are often just as surprising as they are rewarding.
View more of Amy Saville's cyanotype artwork and past workshops on Instagram: @cyanature
September 12
Create your own botanical masterpiece on premium 11" × 14" watercolor paper. Whether you're arranging leaves into an intricate mandala or documenting a favorite plant from the gardens, you'll transform nature's silhouettes into a timeless piece of wall art. Students will leave with one finished cyanotype print ready to frame. (Frame not included.)
September 26
Turn an everyday tote into a functional work of art. Students will learn how to prepare, paint, design, and print a cyanotype on a 100% cotton tote bag. Explore bold compositions using circles, rectangles, organic forms, or abstract arrangements while creating a unique bag that's both beautiful and practical.
October 10
Transform your clothing into a one-of-a-kind wearable work of art using the cyanotype process. Students are encouraged to bring 2–3 light-colored clothing items if they're unsure which piece will work best. Amy will provide guidance on fabric selection and help determine which garment is best suited for printing.
Suitable items include T-shirts, button-downs, light denim, and other garments made from natural fibers such as 100% cotton or linen. Synthetic fibers (including polyester, rayon, nylon, acrylic, or spandex blends) are not suitable for this process and will not produce successful prints.
Leave class with a truly unique piece of clothing inspired by the botanical beauty of McKee Botanical Garden.