Botanicals and Sustainable Photographic Practice
with Anne Eder
May 1 – 4, 2025
Course Description
Explore the world of botanicals and plant-based alternative printing processes with interdisciplinary artist Anne Eder during a dynamic four-day workshop in the Boston area! This hands-on workshop experience invites you to tap into your creativity while exploring New England’s lush landscapes to gather natural materials for image creation and experiment with crafting light-sensitive emulsions and photographic chemistry.
The vital role plants played in the early-stage development of the photographic medium is often overlooked. Over our time together, we explore anthotypes, first developed by Sir John Herschel in the 1840s, that utilize light-sensitive emulsions made from the juices of flowers, leaves, vegetables, fruits, and even weeds. We make Chlorophyll prints by manipulating chlorophyll in leaves. The magic of lumen prints blends black-and-white photographic paper, plant chemistry, and sunlight to reveal vibrant, unexpected colors. Phytograms offer us the opportunity to work directly on film using a plant-based developer.
Our mornings start with engaging presentations from Anne that dig into the historical context of photography, the chemical interactions between plants and photographic processes, and how contemporary artists harness these techniques in their work. Then we immerse ourselves in foraging with Anne on excursions to the woods and meadows. She provides invaluable insights from her extensive knowledge of photography’s history and her deep understanding of New England’s flora. The afternoons are our times for juicing, squishing, painting, setting up, exposing, and exploring various post-exposure methods for our experiments in printmaking.
Throughout the workshop, you unearth and explore unique alternative photographic processes, receive guidance on ethical foraging, and create a small body of work that showcases your artistic vision. Anne works closely with each of you to develop the perfect blend of technique and artistry.
The workshop takes place in the vibrant Western Avenue Studios and Lofts in Lowell (Boston area), home to nearly four hundred artists. Experience this lively creative community firsthand as the workshop coincides with an open studios event, allowing you to explore the creativity and inspiration this artistic center has to offer.
Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your photographic practice while connecting with nature and fellow artists in Anne’s workshop.
Additional Information
WHO SHOULD ATTEND:
What You Should Know:
Basic computer skills are essential, including the ability to edit and download images using editing software. Be prepared for moderate outdoor activity on our foraging excursions, lasting up to an hour or two. Students should bring a laptop, an apron, and a selection of images to work on. An email will be sent with instructions on how to select these images. All other materials needed for this workshop are provided.
Special Notes:
The workshop is based at a studio in the Boston Area: 160 Western Avenue Unit 212 Lowell, MA 01851. This workshop is limited to 12 participants
Activity Level:
Participants should be able to engage in moderate outdoor exercise for up to an hour or more at a time.
Policies:
View Payment, Refund, Withdrawal, and Transfer Policies for Pop-up workshops.
Tuition INFO:
$1,495 includes instruction, classroom fees, materials, coffee service, water, and snacks. Does not include student aprons, meals, local transportation, or accommodations (if needed).
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about
Anne Eder is an interdisciplinary artist and educator. She has been internationally exhibited, awarded, and published, including multiple international awards in alternative process photography. She is currently a lecturer at the Lewis Center for the Arts, Princeton University, faculty at Harvard University, Penumbra Foundation NYC, and the Griffin Museum of Photography. Anne teaches workshops at venues across the country, and, via online learning, all over the world. Much of her work is experimental and research-based, combining historic processes, science, and contemporary conceptual thinking.
Throughout her career, Anne has been an advocate for increased access to the arts, and the creation of public art is a dedicated part of her practice. She lives in Boston writing fairy tales and catering to her fabulous chihuahua, The Brain.
Website: anneeder.com
Instagram: @darcflower
