Barbara Almeida shows us that anthotype is a safe, cost-effective photographic technique ideal for schools, especially in Brazil with abundant plants and sunlight. Using organic materials like spirulina, it fosters creativity, nature connection, teamwork, and multidisciplinary learning in children. Will you do a workshop too?
Anthotype is an interesting practice in schools, especially in Brazil, where there is a vast variety of plants and strong sunlight throughout most of the year. This natural abundance makes it an ideal process for sparking the interest of teachers. In recent years, I have been conducting studies on alternative photographic processes and coordinating a project that shares this knowledge with artists and educators.
Why are teachers interested in anthotype?
As an educator and researcher, I’ve observed that many teachers are drawn to this practice because it is safe, cost-effective, and easy to implement in the classroom.
Anthotype uses organic materials like flowers, leaves, and fruits to create photographic images. The main appeal of this technique for teachers is that it doesn’t require expensive equipment or chemicals, eliminates the risks of exposure to hazardous substances, making it an ideal tool for the classroom.
When teaching educators how to apply anthotype in the classroom, I see how effective this process is not only for artistic development but also for cognitive and social growth. It offers an opportunity to teach art, natural sciences, and history in a hands-on and engaging way.
Here are some reasons why I believe anthotype is a great process for working with children, even in schools with limited resources:
1. Experimentation and Creativity
This technique allows children to experiment with different types of plants, create their own compositions, and explore how light and shadow affect images. It promotes curiosity, and creativity.
2. Connection with Nature
Anthotype offers children the chance to connect with the natural world. Many children in urban environments have limited direct contact with nature, and this process gives them an opportunity to learn about plants. It can also serve as a starting point for discussions about ecology and environmental conservation.
3.Encouraging Multidisciplinary Learning
Anthotype provides an opportunity to integrate various areas of knowledge such as art, science, and history. Children can study the properties of the plants they’re using, learn about the history of photography, and experiment with different types of light to see how it affects the image creation process. This interdisciplinary approach makes learning more meaningful.
4.Promoting Teamwork and Collaboration
The technique is also great for group work. When working as a team, children can share ideas, collaborate in selecting materials, and assist each other during the creative process. This fosters communication and cooperation. The works created by the group can be displayed in school exhibitions, allowing children to share their results and appreciate the work of their peers.
Suitable Materials for the Classroom
To ensure good results, teachers should choose materials that produce images quickly and are easy to handle. Materials like spirulina (a pigment-rich algae) and turmeric are excellent choices. These are inexpensive, safe, and produce visible results in a short amount of time, making the technique even easier to implement in the classroom.
Using Spirulina for Faster Results
If quick results are desired, using a spirulina solution (dissolved in alcohol) is a good alternative to traditional plant juices. This solution is highly pigmented and reacts more quickly to light, allowing the image to develop within one or two hours of sun exposure. This is ideal for school settings, where time can be limited.
How to Make Anthotype with Children at School
Here are the basic steps for doing anthotype with children:
- Prepare the Paper: If using spirulina, mix spirulina powder with alcohol (such as isopropyl alcohol) to create the solution. Teachers can prepare this solution in advance and provide it in small containers for the children. Using a brush, children should apply the spirulina solution evenly to the paper (usually watercolor). Alternatively, natural plant extracts like dandelion or beet juice can be used.
- Arrange the Natural Materials: Children should place flowers, leaves, or other plant materials on the sensitized paper, creating patterns or designs. They can use photo frames to help structure their arrangements or simply let their creativity flow.
- Expose to Light: After arranging the materials, the paper should be placed in direct sunlight for about 1 to 2 hours. The areas covered by the plants will remain darker, forming the image.
- Finish the Print: After exposure, remove the plants and allow the paper to dry completely. The image will be visible and fixed on the paper.
Why Using Anthotype with Children in Schools is an Enriching Activity?
Hear the children’s opinion about the Project:
“I liked it when we put the glass and took it to the sun. And what I liked the most was the little mess when we went to get the plants.”
“We used spirulina. It smells really, really bad!”
“I really liked the pipette. It was so cool to use the pipette!”
“I loved it! What I liked the most was when we put the paper with the paint in the sun to let it paint.”
In conclusion as a researcher and educator, I believe anthotype is an accessible and educational activity for children, especially to enrich education living new experiences. Using spirulina dissolved in alcohol makes the process even more suitable for schools where time is often limited. It is safe, low-cost, and provides a rich learning experience that sparks curiosity and fosters respect for nature.
Rated 9,8 - based on 224 votes
Rated 10 - based on 2 votes
World Anthotype Day
World Cyanotype Day
Dear Noel, Yes, the pigments that expose quickly also tends to fade quickly. As a general rule, there are of course exceptions. 🙂
Great idea!
I have found that Paprika spice works very fast (30-45minutes) however it also fades very quickly