Random Acts of Art

Cyanotype is a photographic printing process that produces a cyan-blue print. Engineers used the process well into the 20th century as a simple and low-cost way to produce copies of drawings, referred to as blueprints. The process involves placing objects or negatives on light-sensitive paper coated with a solution of ferric ammonium citrate and potassium ferricyanide, then exposing it to UV light. After exposure, the paper is washed in water to reveal a permanent blue image. Cyanotype is appreciated for its distinctive blue hues and ease of use, making it popular among artists and photographers exploring alternative photographic techniques.