ORIGINAL CYANOTYPE ART

After more than a decade of growing vegetables powered by the sun, my work that has naturally expanded into creating sun-powered art! Through the centuries-old process of cyanotype, I’m able to harness UV rays to produce one-of-a-kind botanical and photographic prints, all featuring the signature Prussian blue that defines this magical medium. The botanical elements in my work are grown + harvested right here on our farm, and many of my photographic cyanotypes capture scenes from around Saxapahaw (our sweet village just down the road). 

For the months of November and December, my original cyanotype pieces will be available for purchase at Riverside Collective, located down the road in Saxpahaw, NC. Shipping throughout the US will be available for most pieces.

You can follow along this creative journey through my instagram account, @farmbelly.creative.

WHAT IS CYANOTYPE?

Cyanotype is a centuries-old photographic process that uses sunlight (or UV lights) and a special UV-sensitive solution to create “blue prints” of images on paper or fabric. When sunlight hits paper that has been painted with the UV-sensitive solution, everything exposed to UV light turns a deep Prussian blue after being rinsed in water, and anywhere that was blocked from the light turns white/light blue.

In the images below, you can see the 3 key steps in the cyanotype process – starting with the image on the left, the paper has been painted with a UV-sensitive solution and part of the paper has been covered with a pressed flower. The middle image shows what the paper looks like after being exposed to sunlight for roughly 10 minutes. The third image shows the completed cyanotype, after the exposed paper has been rinsed in water and sprayed with a diluted hydrogen peroxide wash.

Cyanotype commissions

Yes, I do offer commissions! Cyanotype is an incredible medium with infinite possibilities, and I love creating custom pieces! If you have specific a specific flower or a photograph that you would like turned into a one-of-a-kind cyanotype, please get in touch by emailing michelle@farmbelly.com.