Traces of Memory showcases work created by foundation level photography students from Exeter College. It was made during a workshop at Positive Light Projects in September 2021, organised by RAMM.
Acclaimed artist and photographer Joy Gregory taught the students how to make cyanotype prints. Cyanotype is a photographic printing process. It involves coating paper with light sensitive chemicals and placing objects on top, before exposing it to a source of ultraviolet light and developing with water. The result is a deep blue artwork that leaves a white trace – or photogram – of the object behind.
Students learned how to mix chemicals, prepare paper, and experiment using different materials and techniques. The work they produced was inspired by Joy’s previous cyanotype projects, such as Breath is Invisible and Girl Thing.
Students created the work on display using their own objects. Many brought personal items relating to family history or memories, allowing them to tell their own stories. They also worked together on two larger textile pieces.
Traces of Memory links to Gregory’s new cyanotype artwork ‘The Sweetest Thing’, now on display as part of the exhibition In Plain Sight: Transatlantic Slavery and Devon. Gregory started making sample pieces of her new commission at the same time as the workshop.
This exhibition forms part of RAMM’s Contemporary Art Programme, with a specific focus on supporting local emerging artists in the South West. It is supported by Arts Council England.
You can view Traces of Memory from 17 to 31 March at Positive Lights Projects.
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