Moonlight Bamboo

Cyanotypes are a kind of 19th century alternative (cameraless) photographic process. While traditional cyanotypes are a navy blue background with sharp white silhouettes, I prefer to manipulate the process to achieve varying softer shades of blue instead, rather like aquatint etchings.

This is a double exposure cyanotype. The different shades of blue are created by exposing some parts of the light-sensitive paper to sunlight longer than others.

My layering and monochromatic multi-tone technique is inspired by different kinds of printmaking that I have practiced in the past, especially multiple-plate block prints and aquatints. There is no printing press, no ink, no etched copper plate nor carved wood block to be able to reproduce these images. Each is a unique monotype made using real plants from my own garden.