Dad: Testing exposure time
I mixed a new batch of cyanotype (using the original instructions (1856) for use in my new UV lightbox constructed from an old record player.
Dad was a musician and precision engineer. Using blueprint reproduction as he would when he worked in the car manufacturing industry, baked in an old record player, would have made him smile.
Anyway, the first test I did was for 5 minutes. I laid a paper template on top of watercolor paper which had been treated with a UV reactive emulsion.
I tested another sheet again for 10 minutes.
I washed both test papers in cold water for 5 minutes.
I then went on to test an ohp negative for 20 minutes including some acid.
Finally, I tried the same negative for 25 minutes, including some pressed flowers and lemon juice.
Points I need to remember when working on my final pieces is:
1. Max expose should be 20 minutes for optimum contrast.
25 minutes exposure (over exposed)
2. UV should be applied liberally using a sponge rather than a brush.
Patchy brush application - use a sponge applicator.
3. Ideally the paper should be dried when using ohp film, but the section with flowers and acids can be wet. This will need a second application on to dried cyanotyoe treated paper.
4. Using salt is effective but will effect the contact between glass and ohp film.
This testing has helped to perfect the set-up so that I can replicate the best process to complete 40 individual prints for the femme collection: lines of desire.
Dad's print will be the first time i have used this new set up, and it seems very fitting because only in examining early relationships with male role models can one even begin to recognise relationship choices and the patterns they reveal.
Most importantly, this process of reflection reveals one's relationship with oneself. This is an excellent starting point for the femme collection as the work engages with female freedom and empowerment.
