‘Flow State’ Cyanotype Printing
Workshop with Rachael Allain
Friday 6 March 2026, 10.30am - 4.30pm
£70
Venue: MAKE Southwest
Suitable for: Adults
Level: Beginners / Intermediate
Join ‘Flow State’ exhibitor, Rachael Allain, to learn the craft of cyanotype printing.
This day-long workshop will introduce participants to the basics of this beautiful alternative photographic technique, one of the earliest forms of photography, invented by Sir John Herschel in 1842. Cyanotype is a camera-less photographic technique that allows you to create your own unique designs in shades of Prussian blue.
Focusing on the concept of ‘flow,’ taking inspiration from the exhibition ‘Flow State’ showing in the Riverside gallery, we will use a variety of papers and non-toxic, light-sensitive photochemistry to create abstract impressions using ultraviolet light and additional ambient daylight (if the weather permits).
Throughout this workshop, you will learn both wet and dry contact printing techniques, incorporating sand, sea salt and seaweed fragments collected from the southwest coastline, as well as other household kitchen essentials.
Participants will explore artistic layouts that highlight the interplay of shadows and light. By the end of the workshop, you will have a foundational understanding of photochemistry, coating techniques, and exposure methods as well as a range of unique camera less prints.
This workshop is suitable for beginners and intermediate levels, offering an intensive, hands-on experience with an unpredictable and experimental alchemical process that goes beyond traditional photography.
Participants must be aged 18 years or older.
About Rachael
Rachael is a multidisciplinary artist, educator and researcher based in South Devon, UK. She has recently completed a PhD in Art & Media at the University of Plymouth.
She works with expanded forms of photography, experimental artists’ moving image and scientific data to reveal invisible realms of our visible world on a macro and micro scale.
Her work is deeply influenced by diverse aquatic environments in the southwest region and beyond. She has participated in art and science expeditionary residencies in the UK, Europe, South Africa and the higher Arctic, and her work is exhibited locally, nationally and internationally.
On the Day
All tools and materials will be provided. Please do wear comfortable / old clothing - aprons will be provided if needed.
Tea, coffee and biscuits are included and will be available on the day. There will be a short lunch break during the workshop and participants are welcome to bring a packed lunch. Our Café is also open should you wish to purchase other refreshments during the workshop.
Workshop participants get 10% off in Rodney’s Café, our exhibitions, and our shop on the day of the workshop! Just show your booking confirmation email or your ticket at the till to receive your discount.
On arrival, please enter the building via the shop, follow the arrows to the café, through the galleries and up the internal stairs. Make your way through the café and through the glass double doors to the workshop. Please let us know if you require the lift.
Please be aware that you cannot use the Co-op car park for all day parking. The Methodist Church car park and Station Road car park usually have plenty of spaces. Click here for more information on our location and car parking for the day.
View MAKE Southwest's Cancellation Policy, HERE.