How to make Resinotype
Silent Giants: An Atmospheric Reflection on Industrial Landscapes in Monochrome
Creating art is often a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, and this piece is no exception. In my latest video, I dive into the fascinating world of a rare and old alternative photography technique called Antracotipia, or Resinotype. It’s a bit of a mouthful, but trust me, the results are worth it!
The magic begins with gelatin sensitized with a special sensitizer. Once exposed to UV light, the gelatin selectively hardens, becoming more or less sticky for the pigments I apply. It’s like baking a cake—everyone has their own secret recipe, and I’ve definitely added a few of my own twists along the way!
One of my favorite tricks? Using metal leaves, originally intended for gilding and interior design, as a background. This gives the image a unique appearance, especially when the light hits it just right. In this particular piece, I used pure silver, which adds a stunning depth and shimmer. The Antracotipia technique also allows for incredibly deep blacks, depending on the pigment used, creating a three-dimensional effect that’s truly special.
As I worked on this piece, I couldn’t help but chuckle at the process. Who knew that creating art could feel like a science experiment gone wonderfully right? The interplay of light and shadow evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of the beauty that can be found in the most unexpected places.
So, the next time you find yourself gazing at a monochrome landscape, remember the journey it took to get there. It’s not just a pretty picture; it’s a story of creativity, experimentation, and a little bit of humor along the way. Embrace the process, and who knows? You might just find inspiration lurking in the smoke!
Join Our Resinotype Workshop – Explore the Magic of Alternative Photography!
Are you passionate about experimental photography? Curious about combining image-making with hands-on artistic techniques?
Discover Resinotype a beautiful 19th-century photographic process using pigments and light-sensitive resins to create one-of-a-kind images with a painterly look.