Artist Masterclass: cameraless images, botanical chemistry and dealing with websites

Led by artist Remi Siciliano, this session introduces two cameraless photographic processes: chemigrams and phytograms. Chemigrams contain the direct software of photographic chemical compounds onto light-sensitive surfaces, whereas phytograms use the interior chemistry of plant matter to provide pictures by contact and publicity.

Participants will work with different botanical builders that Remi has created from domestically sourced invasive weeds (akin to lantana and morning glory). These options shall be utilized experimentally to analogue photographic emulsions, the place the interplay between gentle, natural chemistry, and the photographic floor generates unpredictable textures and outcomes.

The masterclass will start with an indication and dialogue of those processes, adopted by guided, hands-on experimentation. Participants shall be inspired to discover materials interactions, embrace probability, and contemplate how ecological and site-responsive practices can inform their work. Participants will use each silver gelatin paper and movie within the workshop and can take house their prints and negatives on the day, in addition to receiving digital scans of their works.

This session is suited to artists focused on site-responsive initiatives and strategies. Participants are inspired to return ready to informally focus on their present initiatives and practices throughout the group setting. Analogue photographic expertise isn’t a requirement.