A guided exploration of cyanotype printing using UV light, and culminating in a collaborative artwork exploring the theme of altered states.
Explore light, chemistry and perception in 'Cyanotype: Altered States', a hands-on workshop led by film photographer and teacher Nico.
Cyanotype is one of the earliest photographic printing techniques, first developed in the 19th century and known for its striking Prussian blue tones. In this session, you will learn the fundamentals of the process and create your own prints using light-sensitive emulsions, experimental materials and professional UV lights.
We’ll begin with a short introduction to the history and chemistry of cyanotype, giving you an understanding of how light and chemical reactions combine to produce images. You’ll then move into individual printing on paper, experimenting with layering, exposure and composition using a selection of botanicals, textures and found objects. The process encourages curiosity and play, embracing the unpredictability that makes analogue image-making so compelling.
In the second half of the session, participants will work in groups to create a larger collaborative cyanotype piece, responding collectively to the theme of “altered states”, exploring transformation, distortion, perception and the spaces between clarity and abstraction.
No prior experience is required and all materials will be provided.
Due to the hands-on nature of the workshop, spaces are limited to a maximum of 30 participants.
Please note: cyanotype chemicals can stain. We recommend bringing an apron or wearing dark-coloured clothing.
About the Practitioners:
Nico is a film photographer and teacher with experience working in professional film labs. He is proficient in both black-and-white and colour film development, with a particular interest in analogue processes and experimental techniques. Nico studied Film at the University of the Arts London and is a qualified teacher through University College London.
Enya is a trainee psychiatrist and film photography enthusiast. She is interested in integrating creativity into psychiatric practice and exploring psychic states through visual art.
About PsychArt:
PsychArt is a volunteer-led collective and annual conference exploring the role of the arts in mental health. Our work is rooted in creating spaces for reflection, contemplation, creativity, understanding, and healing; bringing together clinicians, artists, and wider communities through shared experience.
Run by a committee of trainee psychiatrists and therapists who are also artists, musicians, and creative practitioners, PsychArt’s events are open to anyone with an interest in attending.
In the lead-up to our June 2026 conference, we are curating a series of evening workshops inspired by the theme Altered States, extending the spirit and conversations of the conference into more intimate, embodied, and exploratory settings.
Contact: If you have any questions regarding this session, please email programming@stmargaretshouse.org.uk
Venue: The Mulberry Hall at St Margaret's House, 21 Old Ford Road — E2 9PL
Access: If you have any access needs of which we should be aware, please get in touch with us on 020 8980 2092 or email programming@stmargaretshouse.org.uk so we can arrange this for you. We are happy to provide a free PA/Carer ticket for anyone with access needs.
Date: Tuesday 28th April
Time: 7-9pm
Tickets:
Pay Less (covers some of our costs) – I am a student, unemployed, on benefits or financially stressed - £20
Standard (covers most of our costs) – I am employed, have some expendable income, and manage to meet my basic needs - £22.5
Pay it Forward (covers all of our costs and supports our work at SMH) – I am employed or have enough savings to comfortably meet my basic needs - £25