Create with Sunlight! Join Mary Anne Barkhouse for a Sun Printing Workshop

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Two individuals holding up paintings depicting animals

Discover the Art of Sun Printing

On Saturday, May 31, Ottawa Public Library (OPL), Library and Archives Canada (LAC) and the City of Ottawa invite you to discover the fascinating world of sun printing (also known as cyanotype) with acclaimed artist Mary Anne Barkhouse. In this hands-on workshop, you will learn how to create bold prints using the power of sunlight.

For Mary Anne, she hopes her tireless work will “add to the overall experience of what this land is and to inspire others to pursue their own investigations into nature and history.”

Work with Mary Anne to create your very own cyanotype on fabric or paper, using plant materials, found objects, or your own negatives. It’s a chance to learn a historic photographic technique while connecting with nature and exploring new creative possibilities.

Empower Creativity Through Nature

Inspired by the natural world and the historical roots of the cyanotype process, Mary Anne Barkhouse has long incorporated this medium into her art. Known for her installations that blend natural imagery and found objects, Mary Anne uses the technique to tell stories about our relationship with nature.

By creating your own cyanotype art piece, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between nature and photography, and how light and water can create lasting, beautiful works of art.

This workshop is more than just learning a new art technique- it’s about fostering creativity and connecting with the environment. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this is your chance to develop a deeper understanding of the relationship between nature and photography, and how the elements of light and water can create lasting, beautiful art.

About the Artist & Ādisōke

This event offers a preview of the creative programming coming to Ādisōke, the future home of OPL’s Central Branch and LAC’s public services, opening in 2026. Discover more about the Indigenous artists selected for on the Ādisōke.

How to Get Involved with OPL

🌞 Learn more about this workshop and register!  Only a few spots left! 

🎨 Explore other creative arts programs at your local branch 

🌐 Access online resources to learn new skills with your library card

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