Sierra larkspur (Delphinium glaucum) anthotype by Leah Campbell

“Summer Fern” by Leah Campbell, Flagstaff, Arizona, USA
Parts Used: Whole flower
Amount: 12 tablespoons
Extracted by: Mortar and pestle
Thinner: Isopropyl alcohol 91%
Application: Foam brush

Layers: 2
Substrate: Arches hot pressed watercolour paper, 300 gsm
Created with: Photogram of fern
Exposure: 36 hours over 7 days in August, summer 2024
UV strength: 3-11
Temperature: 24-32° Celsius
Humidity: 35-55%
Contrast: ✿ (Low)
Challenges or observations: The flowers of the Sierra larkspur are purple so consequently, the hue of the extracted dye was also purple. Interesting to note, however, is that the color upon application turned purple-ish green and the print of the fern itself turned out purple-ish blue. This may have been due to the fact that I used the whole flower (excluding the stem and leaves) instead of using only the petals. Still, it was quite surprising!
Additional information: Sierra larkspur is native to western North America and has been heavily featured in phytochemical research. Toxic to both humans and animals, it has long been associated with livestock poisoning. This species grows in moist mountain habitats, including riverbanks and meadows.
Instagram: @leahjanestudio