CYANOTYPES BY THE SEA IN COASTAL TUSCANY
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CREATIVE RESET BY THE SEA
5
inspiring days
of creativity
in Italy
Many studies show that the majority of people prefer blue to other colors. Cyanotypes by the sea will explore this nineteenth century process to create images as blue as the Italian seaside, as blue as summer skies. Discovered by Sir John Herschel in 1842, cyanotype is one of the earliest and simplest of photographic methods, and unlike many others, never lost popularity, remaining in use continuously for more than one hundred and fifty years. First used to document specimens from nature, and later to produce “blueprints” for architectural drawings, cyanotype eventually became popular as a way to create fine art photographs. It is a flexible and easy to use process that has stood the test of time. Images display a wide tonal range and give the distinct and mysterious “Prussian blue” color. As one of the most stable and nontoxic processes, it is ideally suited for working outdoors without a camera or photographic chemistry. During our time on the Italian coast, we will explore the basics of cyanotype printing, both wet and dry printing methods, working with objects and negatives, and cyanolumens, which combine cyanotype with silver gelatin photographic paper for unique effects. Participants will also learn about the history of cyanotypes, how to create digital negatives, and some simple toning methods for variations on the Prussian blue color.
Place
Nestled along the tranquil southern Tuscan coast lies Monte Argentario, a hidden sanctuary cherished by those seeking refuge from bustling tourist crowds. Unlike its more famous counterparts, Monte Argentario offers a unique blend of rugged natural beauty and cultural intrigue. Discover secluded beaches, pristine coves, and azure waters that invite exploration and quiet contemplation amidst olive groves and fragrant pine forests. Nearby, Saturnia's thermal baths provide a rejuvenating escape amidst ancient ruins and natural hot springs. For a touch of artistic wonder, explore the Tarot Garden—a surreal sculpture park by Niki de Saint Phalle, where vibrant, larger-than-life artworks inspired by the tarot cards await against the backdrop of the Tuscan hills. Monte Argentario promises an unforgettable journey into Tuscany's unspoiled and enchanting realm, where tranquility and inspiration converge.
Retreat Overview
Dates
September 11th - September 17th
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September 11th: Check in and Welcome DinnerWe will meet at the villa anytime after 12 pm. Welcome Dinner
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September 12th: Large Scale CyanotypeYoga class at 10 am followed by a brunch. After brunch we will begin our workshop by learning the history of Cyanotypes. Cyanotypes are one of the earliest and simplest photographic processes. The cyanotype process was the first fully realized non-silver-based process, discovered by Sir John Herschel in 1842. In his general exploration of light sensitive materials, he discovered that when a solution of ferric ammonium citrate combined with potassium ferricyanide was coated on paper, and exposed to sunlight, it resulted in a Prussian blue image formed by the photo-reduction of the ferric to ferrous. The cyanotype process was used to make blueprints for engineers and builders for about the next century beginning around 1876. We will work together on large scale pieces on fabric and paper. Free afternoon to explore nearby towns or beaches. Dinner in town.
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September 13th: Cyanotype on PaperYoga class at 10 am followed by a brunch. After brunch we will learn how to mix cyanotype chemistry and how to make them on paper. Afternoon hike in Maremma National Park. Dinner in town.
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September 14th: Adventure at SeaBoat day to Giglio Island
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September 15th: CyanolumensYoga class at 10 am followed by a brunch. We will learn how to make cyanolumens which involves combining cyanotype chemicals with photographic paper. Visit nearby town of Castiglione della Pescaia, one of the jewels of the Maremma. With its ancient fortress overlooking the blue water of the Tyrrhenian sea, it's one the most scenic of Tuscany's coastal towns
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September 16th: Toning CyanotypesYoga class at 10 am followed by a brunch. Free creative day to continue working on cyanotypes and learn how to tone them.
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September 17th: Check out by 11Check out by 11
Meet Our Hosts
Anne Eder
Anne Eder is an interdisciplinary artist and in-demand educator. She has been internationally exhibited, awarded, and published, including multiple international 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 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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Jessica Kassin
Born in Guatemala and educated in the United States and Italy, Jessica Kassin is a portrait and documentary photographer. Meaningful connections and storytelling shape her work. Her passion for photography, continued education, and travel have led her to create and host distinctive retreats around the world. Jessica is a mother of three, and lives with her family in Miami, Florida.
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Discover Maremma
What's Included
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6-night accommodations in our private villa
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5 days of immersive education
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All materials for workshop
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Transportation to the villa from Rome on Wednesday the 11th
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Daily brunch and 4 dinners
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Thermal Bath adventure
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Boat to around Giglio Island
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Free time in the afternoon to explore nearby villages, seaside or enjoy the villa