Papercut Cyanotypes

This dual-medium experience bridges traditional paper cutting techniques with the historic cyanotype process—a photographic printing method dating back to the 1840s.

Paper cutting is an ancient art form with roots spanning cultures worldwide—from Chinese jianzhi dating back to the 6th century, to European scherenschnitte, to Mexican papel picado. What unites these traditions is the transformation of a simple sheet of paper into intricate designs through careful cutting. This meditative practice requires patience, precision, and an eye for positive and negative space.

The morning session explores paper cutting traditions, tools, and techniques as you create your own cut paper compositions. You'll learn to work with specialized cutting tools, develop an understanding of design principles, and discover how to balance detail with structural integrity.

The afternoon shifts to cyanotype, the distinctive blue printing process invented by Sir John Herschel in 1842 and famously used by botanist Anna Atkins to create the first photographically illustrated book. You'll use your cut paper pieces as photograms—placing them on light-sensitive paper to create stunning prints through sun exposure. Maren will cover the chemistry and history of cyanotype, demonstrate coating techniques, and share best practices for continuing your practice at home.

By the end of the day, you'll leave with a completed cut paper piece, a series of finished cyanotype prints, and a richer understanding of how these two historic mediums work in conversation—the crisp precision of blade-cut paper meeting the organic, sun-driven fluidity of photographic printing.