Cyanotype Sunprinting Workshop

Learn the fundamentals of sunprinting, also called cyanotype or solar printing, where the shapes of natural objects are captured on light-sensitive paper when it is exposed to chemicals and sunlight to create iconic blue-toned prints. Participants will apply the process to  2 - 5 unique textile artworks — from scarves to tote bags. Experience this unique process and come away with one-of-a-kind desert keepsakes in a relaxed and exploratory class setting.

• This indoor-outdoor workshop takes place at the JT Desert Rose Studio.

• Anyone may attend! No expertise or experience is required.

• Entry to Joshua Tree National Park is not needed for this program.

• Art supplies are provided. Participants must provide at least one high-resolution, high-contrast image that can be turned into a photo negative to the instructor prior to the class.

This class is leisurely. It requires less than 2 miles of walking with shade, seating, consistent terrain, and little to no elevation gain. 

Required Items:

• Water (1 liter per person recommended)

• Comfortable clothing suitable for light and potentially messy creative work (staining is possible, please plan accordingly)

• Apron to protect clothing (optional)

• Closed-toe shoes

• Sun protection: A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended for use during the outdoor portion of the workshop

• White cotton t-shirt or other light-colored textile item to print on (optional — a small assortment of textiles are provided)

• Inspiration images (optional)

• Notebook (optional)

Discount Policy: Only one discount may be applied per registration. Discounts cannot be combined. Eligible discounts include Friends & Family, Teacher, Veteran, Active Duty Military (and spouses), Park Lover Member, and Student discounts. The highest applicable single discount will be applied at checkout. 

Meet Your Instructor: Rose Cefalu is rarely without her iPhone, constantly capturing the world around her and sharing her unique perspective on Instagram at @joshuatreedesertrose and @rosecefaluphoto. In her downtime, she’s dreaming up new travel adventures, experimenting with color, and printing her imagery. In 2019, Rose launched a cyanotype workshop as a way to get her hands dirty again and reintroduce this vintage photographic process to a new generation of creatives. With over a decade of experience as an adjunct faculty member at the Art Institute of California (Hollywood and Los Angeles campuses), she has also been a guest lecturer around the world. Rose currently serves as the Photography Director at Emmy magazine and continues to produce award-winning visual content across various platforms. Her personal work is featured in galleries and shops throughout the high desert, and each year, she opens her studio and home as part of the MBCAC’s Open Studio Art Tours. You can explore more of her work at rosecefaluphoto.com.

Thank you to our partner, JT Desert Rose Studio, for generously hosting this Cyanotype class in her downtown Joshua Tree studio. We deeply appreciate her collaboration, creativity, and continued support of desert arts education.

We encourage you to explore her work and upcoming classes, and to support this incredible local artist by visiting her website.

Photo Credit: Anna Atkins