How to make Resinotype

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!