LESSONLESSON 22 Photograms

The artwork shown in Figure 10–8 is an WHAT YOU WILL LEARN example of a cyanotype (sy-an-oh-typ). This In this lesson you will select appropriate is a photographic process using images in art materials and tools to interpret subjects in tints and tones of blues. Notice how the nature when producing photographic im- plant image is white, and the negative space agery in experimental ways. You will make a surrounding it is blue. Note also how the variant of a cyanotype called a photogram. rounded leaf at the top appears almost to be This is an image made using precoated paper that “see-through.” The leaf is translucent. This detects the presence of ultraviolet light. You will means light is able to pass through. use either natural or manufactured objects to create your print. You will use the principle of variety to arrange the art elements of line and shape. Positive and negative space will be equally important in your composition. You will use either formal or informal balance.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED ● UV-sensitive paper (precoated paper) ● Various collected objects ● Cardboard slightly larger than paper ● White paper the size of the UV-sensitive paper ● Shallow pan with running water ● Acrylic sheet (optional)

WHAT YOU WILL DO 1. Begin by brainstorming a list of small objects that have interesting contours. Notice the negative space, or shapes formed around the objects. Collect as many objects as possible for your photographic imagery. Include at least one transparent and one translucent item in addition to opaque objects. Figure 10–8 The artists made a cyanotype to create this image for a scientific reference book. They established 2. Place a sheet of white paper on a table. photography as an accurate medium for scientific illustration. Arrange the objects in experimental Anna Atkins and Anne Dixon. Pink Lady’s Slipper (Cypripedium), ways. To create variety, arrange three to 1 collected in Portland. 1854. Cyanotype. 25.8 20.2 cm (10 ⁄4 8 ). five of the items you collected on the The J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles, California. paper. Think about the various lines and

188 Chapter 10 Photography shapes of the objects. Look at the positive and negative spaces in your arrange- Evaluating Your Work ment. Decide on whether you will use formal or informal balance. Choose an ● Describe How did you produce photo- arrangement you are pleased with, and graphic imagery using a variety of art begin your photogram. materials and tools? 3. Dim the lights and lower the blinds to ● Analyze How does your photogram keep your work space as dark as show variety? Explain how you used both possible. Place your sun-sensitive paper negative and positive space in your on a piece of cardboard, blue side up. composition. How did you arrange your Rearrange your selected objects on the objects in experimental ways? paper. ● Interpret What mood or feeling is 4. Place the grouping in direct sunlight until expressed in your photogram? Explain. the paper turns almost white. This may ● Judge Do you feel your photogram is take from 1 to 5 minutes, depending on successful? Using one or more of the the brightness of the day. Try not to aesthetic theories explained in Chapter 5, overexpose the sun-sensitive paper. defend your decision. 5. Remove your objects. Rinse your paper in a shallow pan under slowly running water for 1 minute. Washing removes the unexposed soluble chemical. Handle the paper gently to avoid tearing it. Gently blot with a paper towel. 6. Carefully set out your photogram so that it dries flat. Where the sunlight shone on the paper, you will see blue. The areas where you placed the objects will appear white. Make several photograms and select one or two to mount and display.

Figure 10–9 Student work. Photogram.

REFLECTIVE THINKING Critical Evaluation. Analyze the original art- To view more photograms, check works of your peers. Examine the photograms out the Student Art Gallery at they created and form conclusions about formal art.glencoe.com. On our Web site properties and intent. For example, how did they you will also find: organize the elements of art? Did their work convey what they intended? ● Artist Profiles ● Interactive Games ● Web Links

Lesson 2 Photograms 189