Blueprints and Brews: a cyanotype workshop with Marge Bradshaw

Try your hand at alternative photographic printmaking whilst having a brew or two.

Learn how to take a photo without a camera! Expect a laid back and fun workshop, where you’ll get to make different types of photographic prints using light. Create a series of prints for yourself, or to give as a gift.

No experience necessary.

What does the workshop include?

• Introduction to alternative photographic print making
• Professional tutoring to create your own cyanotype prints
• A take-away guide to continue producing prints yourself at home.

All materials are provided, just bring yourself.

How much does it cost?

£25 each, including all materials.

Limited places, book early to avoid disappointment.

This price does not include drinks. Full bar available, 20% off all drinks including hot chocolate, teas, coffees and alcohol.

Places are limited, first come first served.

Where is it?

The Beer School, Market Street, Westhoughton.

Arrive at 6.30pm for a prompt start.

The small print:

• You don’t need a camera or any photography skills to take part. All materials will be provided.
• Payment is taken at the point of booking. Refunds are available up to 7 days prior to the event. (however please note that you will still be charged for your booking fee levied by Eventbrite). After that time, no refunds are allowed (this is because we purchase all equipment and materials at that point to cover the number of those attending).
• Places are limited. Please book early to avoid disappointment.
• If we don’t reach the minimum attendance by 5 days in advance the session will be cancelled and you’ll be refunded.
• Whilst we love our furry friends, the workshop isn’t suitable for dogs to join in with - please leave your furry friends at home for this one!
• Please note that whilst the workshop area is accessible for wheelchair users, toilets are upstairs - we have therefore arranged for workshop participants to use the accessible toilets at The Wheatsheaf pub next door. Please share any access requirements in the questions at point of booking so we can make your experience as comfortable as possible.

What are cyanotypes?

Cyanotype photography is a cameraless technique that involves laying an object on paper coated with a solution of iron salts before exposing it to UV light and washing with water to create white and blue prints.

About me and my practice

I'm a professional photographer based in Westhoughton. My practice is predominantly socially engaged and focuses on exploring people, place and heritage through portrait, social and documentary photography. I create work in collaboration with communities on subjects that matter to them.

I’ve exhibited work at various museums and galleries including Open Eye Gallery, RPS Gallery Bristol, Museums Northumberland, Williamson Art Gallery, Warrington Contemporary Art Festival, Science Museum London, HOME and Bolton Museum and Art Gallery.

My work has been published in a range of national and specialist media including the BBC and The Guardian. I was shortlisted for the British Journal of Photography’s Portrait of Britain volume 6 in 2023 and selected as a winner for volume 7 in 2024.