Blue ranks among the most culturally significant ancient pigments in art history. Premium blue pigments have long been scarce due to limited raw materials and complex refining processes. Prussian blue is favored by generations of artists, and cyanotype printing stands as a classic application of this hue in analogue photography. Using iron salts as photosensitive media, the technique relies on natural sunlight to trigger chemical color development, imprinting clear blue tones permanently on paper surfaces.
Chen Jieying, principal of Pinart Studio and professional art aesthetic tutor, leads this moss-themed cyanotype workshop. Holding a First-Class Master of Arts degree from Goldsmiths, University of London, she specializes in visual image aesthetics. She excels at translating esoteric ancient craft into accessible aesthetic courses, having guided more than 800 students to complete cyanotype works with a student satisfaction rate exceeding 99%.
Participants will learn the full cyanotype workflow, including aesthetic theoretical lectures, compositional design, solar exposure development, water washing fixation and final mounting. The workshop adopts small-group teaching suitable for complete beginners, with professional materials, tools and decorative accessories provided on-site. One-on-one tutor guidance is available throughout the session. All finished cyanotype bookmarks can be taken home, allowing participants to encapsulate sunlight and natural charm through hands-on traditional craft creation.