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Experimental Photography & Cyanotype Phot

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xiaowei chen.jpg

A fine art artist, well-known educator.

Xiaowei Chen
Randa Liu.jpg
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Teaching Assistant,

XC Art Center

Randa Liu
Jiabao Qiao

Competition Program Instructor,

XC Art Center

Course  Overview:

Photography Styles: Landscape, Portrait, Street & Architecture

This course emphasizes the experimental process, image creation, and conceptual understanding. The number of finished works is a reference based on reasonable expectations and may vary depending on the student’s comprehension and skill level.

Parent Notice: The cyanotype course involves light-sensitive coatings and rinsing processes. Materials may contain chemical components. Students with the following conditions should not enroll or should inform the center in advance for assessment:

 

  • History of allergies to chemical coatings, dyes, or cleaning agents

  • Sensitive skin, eczema, or dermatitis

  • Sensitivity to odors or fine dust

 

Gloves are provided and required. All operations are supervised. Students with known severe allergies are advised to enroll in a non-chemical alternative course.

​Schedule :

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  • March 16 - 20 | 23 - 27

  • April 20 - 24

  • June 15 - 19

  • July 6 - 10

  • August 24 - 28

CAmp information 
 

Time:9:30 AM- 3:30 PM

age Size:8 - 12 years old

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1-Day : Intro Course Students typically complete 1–2 cyanotype prints. Focus is on experiencing the full process and understanding the relationship between light and materials, not on complex composition or series development.

 

4-Day : Full Course Students typically complete 4–5 related cyanotype works. The focus is on establishing logical relationships between images to form a small but complete experimental photography series.

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Optional Add-On Course (1–2 Days) : Advanced Development
Available after completing the 4-day course, based on student progress.

Course Daily Breakdown

1-Day Intro Course

Focus:   Intro to experimental photography through cyanotype

Output:   1–2 cyanotype prints

​Course Flow:

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  • Introduction to cyanotype and its role in experimental photography

  • How light and material generate images

  • Safety guidelines and handling instructions

  • Understanding materials: light-sensitive paper, natural objects, masking items

  • Basic composition techniques and layout

  • Cyanotype exposure under guidance

  • Observation of exposure time effect

  • Washing, drying, and result discussion

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4-Day Full Course

Focus: Complete experimental photography project

Output: 4–5 interrelated cyanotype works

Day 1: Concept Development & Material Testing

Day 2: Composition Experiments & Theme Exploration

  • Learn about the history and logic behind cyanotype and experimental photography

  • Safety guidelines and material handling

  • Conduct small-scale test experiments

  • Understand the relationship between light, time, and materials
    Goal: Build a full understanding of how images are generated

  • Choose subject matter and layout based on theme

  • Conduct multiple exposure tests

  • Compare results across compositions and material combinations
    Goal: Move from individual tests to intentional image creation

Day 3: Series Building & Image Refinement

Day 4:Organization, Presentation & Artist Statement

  • Select effective images

  • Develop logical connections between images

  • Reinforce theme through repetition and variation
    Goal: Develop series-based thinking

  • Finalize image selection and editing

  • Discuss concept and creative process

  • Write a concise artist statement

  • Understand the philosophy of "process as the work"
    Goal: Form a coherent and presentable photography series

Optional Add-On Course (1–2 Days):

Advanced Development Available after completing the 4-day course, based on student progress.

May include:

  • Brainstorming and concept refinement

  • Expanding cyanotype work into installation or spatial presentation

  • Advanced material combinations and techniques

  • Exploring how the work is viewed and presented

  • Enhancing logic and expressive depth

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Note: Not all students will transition to installation. Eligibility depends on age, skill level, and safety.

Pre-Course Student Preparation Checklist

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1. Materials (Provided)
All experimental materials are provided by XC Art Center. No need to bring your own.

2. Photography Equipment

  • Students may bring their own camera or device

  • Equipment borrowing or rental support is available (request in advance)

  • Bring chargers, batteries, and storage devices

3. Computer & Software (Required)

  • Students must bring their own laptop

  • At least one image-editing software should be installed (e.g., Photoshop, Lightroom)

  • Ensure software is functioning before class

4. Mental & Learning Readiness
Students should understand:

  • The goal is not to take "pretty" photos, but to explore and experiment

  • Trial and error are expected and necessary

  • Students are responsible for their own decisions

  • Each student’s pace and direction is unique

  • Keep an open mind and be ready to try new ideas

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