Queer Art Club: Cyanotype Print Workshop

Hosted by Queer Art Club

Queer Art Club presents Cyanotypes: Sun Prints with Katika Marczell

For all the lovely queer folks who always wanted to experiment with cyanotypes, now’s your chance!

What is a cyanotype, you ask?

A cyanotype is a photographic printing process that uses light-sensitive iron salts and sunlight to create images in shades of blue. Cyanotypes are a fun and pressure-free way to experiment with exposure techniques, and to explore the relationship between light, time, and shadow. What makes cyanotypes really special is how simple and accessible they are - you don’t need a camera, darkroom, or fancy equipment to make one!

In this workshop we’ll experiment with a few different ways to expose images onto cyanotype paper, as well as playing with exposure times. Come be with your queer community while we learn how to create one-of-a-kind prints!

What to expect:

• You’ll get a small package of cyanotype paper with different sizes and different stocks of paper
• We’ll do a run down of how cyanotypes work and the materials we’ll be using that day
• Together we’ll play with the cyanotypes to create our own unique imagery
• We’ll also discuss how to make cyanotypes at home and the different materials they can be used on
• For folks who like more direction: there will also be the option to ask for prompts! (Which Katika is more than happy to provide!)
• You will get to take home your custom made cyanotype prints!

Already have some ideas of things you’d like to experiment with? Bring your favourite objects, cut-outs, or whatever-you’re-thinking with you!

Accessibility: The workshop will be on the second floor of George Chuvalo Neighbourhood Centre. The centre is fully accessible. All entrances and restrooms are wheelchair accessible, and there is an elevator available to access the second floor.

Katika Marczell (she/her) is an interdisciplinary artist and muralist. She completed her (honors)BA at the University of Toronto, and her MFA at York University. She has received grants from the Ontario Arts Council, the Canada Council for the Arts, and has been the recipient of York Master’s Fellowship, and the Canada Graduate Scholarship – Master’s (SSHRC). She has facilitated various community workshops around Toronto, and has taught at York University.

Marczell has shown in Toronto, Milton, Montreal, at the Varley Art Gallery in Markham, and at the Art Gallery of Peterborough. She has worked with the Agnes Etherington Gallery, Bell Box Murals, Kensington BIA, West Queen West BIA, Street Art Toronto, The Personal Care Bank, Mural Routes, Arts Milton, as well as private clients. Her murals can be found in and around Toronto, Etobicoke, and Milton.