Botanicals and Sustainable Photographic Practice

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.