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MASTERCLASS | ONLINE | LIVE

Experimental Gum Bichromate

Anne Eder

Duration

6 hours

Price

250 euros

Language

English

Welcome to this immersive masterclass on the gum bichromate process and its innovative alternatives! This course is designed for photographers, artists, and anyone interested in alternative photographic processes. Over the span of three two-hour classes, we will delve into both traditional and contemporary methods, offering a blend of hands-on practice and creative exploration. This alternative printing technique, which has captivated artists since its inception in the 19th century, offers a unique blend of artistry and science. The gum bichromate process involves coating paper with a mixture of gum arabic, a photosensitive dichromate solution, and pigment. When exposed to ultraviolet light, the dichromate hardens the gum, creating a detailed and vibrant image. 

Our course goes beyond the basics, inviting participants to explore the versatility and depth of the gum bichromate process. In addition to mastering the traditional method, you'll experiment with a range of traditional and untraditional pigments to create interactive prints that respond to heat, touch, and different wavelengths of light. The journey continues as we apply this technique to unconventional substrates, including ceramics, allowing for kiln-fired, durable prints. Finally, we will introduce a modern, eco-friendly variant of the process, replacing toxic dichromates with a kelp-derived colloid and an iron light trigger. This innovative approach not only ensures safer handling but also opens up new possibilities for sustainable artistic expression. By the end of the course, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of both classic and cutting-edge techniques, empowering you to create unique and expressive photographic works.

Designed fo: Those who want to delve deeper into this experimental color printing technique.

Admission requirements: Basic knowledge of analog photography capture is recommended.

Price: 300 euros.

Duration: 3 sessions, each one lasting 2 hours.

Modality: Live-online with the artist.

Language: English.

Start dates: To be decided by everyone when there are 4 pre-registered participants. The class will be on a weekday from 6 to 9 pm (Spanish time).

What includes:

• Unlimited access to all content of live and pre-recorded classes (workshops, conferences and additional downloadable materials) for life. • Be a member of the Ágora Community: participate for free in our monthly Online Meetings (October 23, November 20, January 29, February 26, March 19, April 30 and May 21) and show your work in our social networks. • Access the exclusive Ágora Community group on WhatsApp with exclusive discounts, direct access to teachers and the Ágora team, monthly information, special content.

Necessary materials:

Program:

Session 1 Space and Chemistry
  • Materials:

In the first class, there will be a quick refresher on the mechanics of the gum process with demonstrations using an assortment of traditional and non traditional pigments. These can result in interactive prints, responsive to heat, touch, and different wavelengths of light.

Session 2 Film Development
  • Materials:

The second class will focus on creating gum prints on different and unique substrates such as ceramic surfaces and others and includes the use of pigments that can be kiln fired.

Session 3 Printing Process and Creativity
  • Materials:

Our final class introduces a modern, eco-friendly variant of the gum bichromate process that eliminates the use of toxic dichromates. Instead, we will use a colloid derived from kelp and an iron light trigger, providing a safer and sustainable alternative.

Your Teacher

Anne Eder

@darcflower

Anne Eder

Anne Eder is an interdisciplinary artist and in-demand educator. She has been internationally exhibited and published and has received multiple awards in alternative process photography. She is currently a lecturer in the Lewis Center for the Arts, Princeton University, instructor in the Harvard Ceramics Program, Harvard University, faculty at Penumbra Foundation in NYC, Santa Fe Workshops, and at the Griffin Museum of Photography. She 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, contemporary conceptual thinking, and environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional photographic chemistry. Throughout her career, she 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 New England with her fabulous chihuahua, The Brain.

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