Red cabbage (Brassica oleracea) anthotype by Regina Cury

“Patuá” by Regina Cury, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Parts used: Leaves
Amount: 50 grams
Extracted by: Blender
Thinner: Tap water
Application: Brushing

Layers: 3
Substrate: Canson Aquarela, Mixed media, 300 gsm
Created with: I placed a small branch of Flor do Guarujá, a coastal South American plant, inside a filo bag. After lightly sealing it, I sandwiched the bag between a wooden base and a glass sheet, securing it with paper clips. Exposed to Rio’s winter sun for about four hours over two days, the print was then complete.
Exposure: 4 hours on two different days in July, winter 2024
Contrast: ✿✿ (Medium)
Challenges or observations: I haven’t yet managed to extract the photosensitive substance from Flor do Guarujá (Turnera subulata), the branch in this print—but I’m still trying! For now, I used a red cabbage emulsion. The fresh green leaves inside the sachet released moisture that reacted with the emulsion, turning it blue and giving the image a distinct luminosity.
Additional information: When my husband passed away in 2021, our son scattered his ashes over two dried Flor do Guarujá bushes. The next day, two flowers bloomed. He was a cook, and since this plant is both edible and medicinal, it became a fitting tribute—and the inspiration for this print.
Instagram: @reginacuryart
Websites: reginacuryart.com.br and myanthotypes.my.canva.site