Design Museum Academy Adult Workshop
Workshop: Cyanotypes and Cyanolumens
Immerse yourself in the cyanotype and cyanolumen process, and create amazing designs on paper or fabric using leaves and flowers, exploring artistic layouts in your prints.
What to expect
Journey into the world of camera-less photography to experiment with Cyanotype and Cyanolumen processes. Suitable for both beginners and photography enthusiasts, this workshop will offer a hands-on exploration of a process that is free from the constraints of traditional photography.
In this workshop, you will learn the basics of chemistry, coating techniques and exposure methods and experiment with materials such as art paper, photographic paper and fabric to create your own cyanotypes and cyanolumens.
You will try both processes in a dry and wet form and use natural dyes such as turmeric and paprika to introduce different colours in your work. You will use flowers, leaves and acetates for artistic results. A step-by-step guidance will be provided, which will include mixing chemicals, coating techniques and creative layouts.
What will I learn?
Introduction to cyanotype photography
Introduction to cyanolumens
Basics of chemistry, coating techniques and exposure methods
Layering and creative layouts
Experimentations with natural dyes for wet cyanotypes and cyanolumens
Please note:
Capacity is limited, we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment
All equipment, materials and light refreshments will be provided
This workshop is suitable for adults 18+
Photos by Niki Sianni
Facilitator
Niki Sianni
Sianni has been teaching photography for the past 20 years. She currently manages the photography department at Morley College London, Chelsea Centre. Sianni particularly enjoys experimenting with darkroom techniques and alternative processes. She has recently developed a great interest in sustainable darkroom and botanical toners.
Booking information
Adult: £104
Early bird adult: £94
Student 18+ y/o: £94
Early bird Student: £84
Members*: £83
*Please note that this benefit only applies to the cardholding Member’s ticket and not those of additional guests
– Early bird tickets are available until Monday 19 May 2025
– Capacity is limited, we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment
– Light refreshments and equipment will be provided for the duration of the session
Check out the Design Museum Academy refunds and cancellations policy here
Additional information
This workshop is for participants aged 18 and over, and the content has been designed with adult learners in mind
If there’s anything we can do to help you participate, whether it’s around mobility, sensory access, mental health, communication preferences, or anything else, you’re welcome to share this with us at ticket checkout. This is entirely optional, and you can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with
You're welcome to bring a companion if you'd benefit from 1:1 support during the workshop. Companion places are free – please email the team at DMAcademy@designmuseum.org with your Booking information so we can reserve your spot
This session is led by one facilitator and includes up to 20 participants
If you have any questions or would prefer to chat to someone directly, get in touch with us via DMAcademy@designmuseum.org. We’ll do what we can to best support you
What's on
Background image: Cyanotype by Niki Sianni.