Algae, spirulina (Spirulina maxima) anthotype by David Lowe

“Future Hopes and Friendships” by David Lowe
Country: UK
Parts used: Liquid blue food colouring
Application: Brushing with a foam brush
Exposure time: 6 hours in hot sunshine
Month, season and year: July, Summer 2022
Substrate: Hahnemuhle watercolour paper 300 gsm hot pressed
Contrast of final print: ** (Medium)

Amount: Mix in equal proportions with alcohol. (1 tablespoon of each is sufficient to coat A4 paper)
Extracted using: Mix together with a spoon
Thinner: Alcohol (a small amount of baking soda, citric acid or lemon juice can be added to tone the emulsion if needed)
Layers: 2 coats works best
Used to create image: I normally use a digital transfer film; however, I have also tried photograms and they work just as well.

Challenges or observations: This emulsion works well on a hot sunny day in the North of England, however, it can soon become overexposed if left out for too long in the hot sun. Good for beginners. I like the unpredictability of Anthotype printing and also the fact that it is an ephemeral process.

Instagram: @handalteredphotomontages