Exploring the island through chromatography, glass plate photography, sunprint techniques and botanical toning

With Dora Đurkesac/Isabelle Goossens/Nadja Tobias

This hands-on workshop invites participants to explore traditional artistic techniques:

Glass plate photography using large format cameras

Pinhole photography

Developing film with plant-based developers

Cyanotype printing, a sun-powered process rooted in the 19th century

Botanical toning, following the techniques of Anette Golaz using plants sourced directly from the island

Soil and plant based chromatography, a visual technique that separates and reveals the hidden pigments and chemical compounds in natural materials, creating unique patterns that reflect the ecological and biochemical makeup of plants and earth

This workshop invites you to reconnect with nature through hands-on exploration of historical photographic techniques using local plants and soils as both subject and material. By engaging directly with the landscape of Vis, participants develop a deeper awareness of the natural world’s subtle systems and resilience. In a time of climate change, ecological collapse, migration, and conflict, this practice becomes an act of resistance—reclaiming slowness, care, and attention as tools for healing and support. Through creative experimentation, we learn from nature and honor it not just as inspiration, but as a companion in restoring balance.

Working with paper, glass, and fabric as mediums, you’ll create photographic collages by combining traditional techniques with natural materials. Using plants and soil collected from the island, you’ll experiment with toning and chromatography and produce unique visuals.

The workshop pays tribute to Anna Atkins, considered the first female photographer, who pioneered cyanotype for botanical illustration. Participants will also learn about the rich local flora—its medicinal uses, cultural significance, and its role in everyday life on Vis.

Workshop Structure

Introduction & Inspiration

Overview of the cyanotype process and its historical context, highlighting the work of Anna Atkins

Introduction to the workshop goals, working with pinhole camera and large format camera, materials (paper, fabric, glass), and techniques of developing film with plant- based developers, working with chromatography and toning cyanotype with botanicals.

Preparing the Materials

Step-by-step guidance on mixing and handling chromatography chemicals

Preparing the soil and plants

Creating Chromatography

Hands-on session creating chromatography with plant elements and soil

Preparing the Materials

Step-by-step guidance on mixing and handling cyanotype chemicals

Preparing surfaces for printing: treating paper and fabric

Creating Cyanotypes

Hands-on session creating cyanotypes with plant elements and glass plate photographs

Exposure using sunlight and arranging compositions

Experimentation with different materials and layering techniques

Botanical Toning

Presentation of botanical toning and work of Anette Golaz

Introduction to plant-based toning using local flora

Guided experimentation with toning techniques to transform your prints

Pinhole and large format camera photography and developing film with plant-based developers

Introducing to and working with pinhole and large format camera

Hands-on session developing film with plant-based developers

Review & Reflection

Group review of participants’ work with discussion on technique, results, and variations

Tips on how to adapt the process at home using accessible materials

Closing

Final reflections on learning and creative outcomes

Suggestions for continuing cyanotype and alternative photography practices independently

All materials are provided; no prior experience with alternative photography is required.

We invite you to create, experiment, and explore with us. Pomalo.