Introduction to Alternative Process Photography

This course is designed as an accessible and exploratory introduction to alternative photographic processes. Over the quarter, students will engage with a diverse range of historical and experimental techniques including cyanotypes, anthotypes, alternative developers, and lumen prints. Each process will be introduced through hands-on demonstrations, practical exercises, discussions, and lectures exploring both historical and contemporary artists who integrate these approaches into their work. The primary goal of this course is to expand students’ creative practice and photographic vocabulary through direct experimentation with these processes. By the end of the quarter, students will develop an appreciation for the expressive possibilities of alternative photography, gaining both an introduction to technical skills and an understanding of alternative photographic processes place within the broader history and contemporary landscape of photographic art.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Learn how to mix cyanotype chemistry correctly and safely, how to apply cyanotype chemistry to various surfaces including but not limited to watercolor paper and fabric. Learn appropriate exposure and washing techniques for the cyanotype process Learn how to make plant-based emulsions to create anthotype prints and how to appropriately expose images, how to store prints in a light safe environment, and options for preserving anthotypes Learn how to make lumen prints, how to process prints, how to store prints in a light safe environment, and options for preserving lumen prints Learn how to create chemigrams using Vaseline, tape, honey, and cooking oils as well as how to process the prints using plant-based developers Learn how to create phytograms using 35mm film or B&W darkroom paper Brief introduction to the history of alternative photography including discussions on contemporary practitioners and how they use experimental approaches to photography within their practice. COURSE OUTCOMES

Foundation of technical knowledge to successfully use the cyanotype, anthotype, phytogram, lumen printing, and chemigram techniques Understanding of core historical and contemporary art practitioners who utilize alternative photographic processes Experience participating in critique and exploring artistic vision Ability to apply basic alternative photographic techniques, knowledge and vocabulary within a personal practice COURSE MATERIALS The Materials Fee for the course covers the majority of supplies that students will use both in class and to complete assignments, including the various chemicals, digital negative media, watercolor paper, and black and white papers used for the different printing processes. Students may incur some additional materials costs should they wish to go above and beyond or explore a particular process in more depth outside of the course requirements. See the Important Notes for Students section below for details about facilities access and rental fees.