Cyanotype Animation Project

In this course we combine the centuries-old, distinctively blue medium of cyanotype (a pre-photographic alternative process) with various forms of digital and analog animation to create a group short film in our unique learning community. Students will work individually and in small groups to create short animated sequences using cyanotype as the launching point. Studies will begin with exercises to learn animation basics, including thaumatropes, zoetrope strips and flipbooks, and an introduction to the cyanotype process. Readings on the nature of the color blue and others will inform development of projects. Following this work, students will choose an application of cyanotypes to animate, such as: printing a sequence of small cyanotypes on paper to animate frame-by-frame; or using cyanotypes printed on paper or fabric to create cut-outs or puppets to animate; or direct-on-film cyanotypes for abstract photograms or contact-printed found footage; or new techniques that students invent! These short sequences will then be compiled and edited into one group animated short film united by the blue color and unique qualities of this evocative medium. Our finished group film will be presented in a gala public screening. Hands-on experiential learning will be complemented by weekly animation screenings, readings and a short written synthesis paper at term's end.