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

  • Please note that this workshop is for participants over 18 years old, and the content and complexity have been tailored accordingly

  • If you would like to let us know about any access requirements, including neurodiversity, there is the option to notify us at the ticket checkout

  • If you would like to have 1:1 support for this workshop, you are welcome to bring a companion to support you on your project, at no extra cost. To request a companion spot please email DMAcademy@designmuseum.org with your booking information.

  • This session has a capacity of 20 participants, and one or two facilitators will be leading the sessions. So, the ratio of participants per facilitator will be 10:1.

  • If you have any questions, please contact DMAcademy@designmuseum.org

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Background image: Cyanotype by Niki Sianni.