October 20, 2026 | BAL Courtyard
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Cyanotype Pop-Up!
We were delighted to welcome five students and several faculty members who stopped by to explore the creative process of cyanotype printing.
Participants learned how to create beautiful blue-and-white prints using light-sensitive paper and everyday objects. The activity also introduced the pioneering work of Anna Atkins and explored connections between photography, nature, and women’s writing.
Event Highlights
It was a wonderful opportunity to experiment with a historic photographic technique while connecting creativity, literature, and community.
How to Make Your Own Cyanotype
Interested in trying cyanotype printing yourself? Follow these three simple steps!
01 | EXPOSE
Arrange objects such as leaves or flowers on prepared cyanotype paper and expose it to light.
02 | RINSE
Wash the print with water to reveal the image.
03 | DRY
Let the print dry and watch the blue color deepen!
Cyanotypes, Photography, and Women’s Writing
Anna Atkins (1799–1871) was a pioneer of early photography who used cyanotypes to document botanical specimens. Her work demonstrates how photography can connect scientific observation with artistic expression.
Learn more about her work through the Natural History Museum’s article on Anna Atkins and her cyanotypes.
Workshop PowerPoint
Interested in learning more about cyanotype printing and its connections to literature and photography? If you would like a copy of the PowerPoint presentation used during the event, please contact Dr. Kilcline at mkonkol@odu.edu.
Thank you again to everyone who participated! We look forward to welcoming you to future mpark events.
Edited by Xianzhong Meng