A graphic of the swatches before exposure, behind their respective swatches after exposure/toning. The turmeric + cayenne + BPF gin was omitted from the graphic.

Impatient Anthotypes: High-Contrast, Quick-Exposure Emulsions

The anthotype process transforms everyday plants and food into beautiful, light-sensitive prints, but it is often slow and unpredictable. In this experiment, Mariam Matta set out to explore high-contrast, quick-exposure anthotype emulsions that could offer faster results without sacrificing detail. By testing a variety of plant pigments, alcohol thinners, and toners, she aimed to identify combinations that are both reliable and visually striking and shares the results in this article. … Read more

Mix of Spirulina (Spirulina platensis) and turmeric (Curcuma longa) anthotype by Mariam Matta

Mix of Spirulina (Spirulina platensis) and Turmeric (Curcuma longa) anthotype by Mariam Matta

“Free Roaming Friends” by Mariam Matta, Los Angeles, California, USA
Parts used: Powders
Amount: First, equal amounts of both powders, then I added slightly more turmeric. Minimum triple liquid to powder ratio by volume for solvent
Extracted by: Soaking and swirling in a metal cocktail shaker, then draining slowly through coffee filters.
Solvent: 91% isopropyl alcohol, and a tiny bit of water for getting the stubborn bits drained
Application: Airbrushed until the paper was evenly a deep yellow

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