About

Cyanotype is a photographic printing process invented in 1842.

While this medium is typically seen in old blueprints or to showcase flowers and foliage, I use the human form as my ‘negative’.

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I apply a home-made cyanotype solution to canvas, then have a model lie down on the canvas under the sun. The UV from the sun develops the parts of the canvas not blocked by the person. While the image is developing, I add water and other elements to vary the amount of exposure and chemical concentration.

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I was first inspired to explore the cyanotype medium when looking for a way to document my body while pregnant with my first child. As many of us do, I had many complicated feelings about being pregnant. I had miscarried twice and was scared my body might betray me again. I wanted to capture an image of my body as form alone. I then went on to experiment with a variety of body types, even mannequins, to investigate human form.

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Through this exploration, I’ve fallen in love with capturing the human form with the cyanotype process. The extended exposure allows me to slow down time and manipulate a moment with movement, water, and light. The direct contact between the subject and the canvas allows for an immediacy of physical form while the unpredictable nature of the cyanotype exposure explores the mystery of our experience.

Thank you for taking the time to view my work.

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- Cat