The Scribe - Page 3

Blueprints of Nature - Bonnie O. App Cyanotypes • Botanical and Cyanotype Artist • Focus on the Natural Environment • Group, Solo, Juried Exhibitions Bonnie O. App @bonoapp See more now! bonoappart.wixsite.com Early Career and Artistic Journey Throughout her working life, first as a teacher, then as a commercial graphic artist, Bonnie’s free time was often spent creating art using a variety of mediums. Eventually she began a journey into botanical art and became a member of the American Society of Botanical Artists. As a natural extension of traditional botanical art, she began to create cyanotype prints and is a supporting member of AlternativePhotography.com and the Ohio Art League. Artist’s Philosophy The intricate beauty of plants and the environment in which they grow is a gift. Each and every time Bonnie embarks on a new composition, she is led through a series of steps that provide her with a new and unique appreciation of the surrounding landscapes. It is Bonnie’s hope that her art will encourage interest in and respect for the natural environment. Creative Process and Natural Inspiration “Creativity is an organic process. When I am surrounded by nature, whether is it walking through the woods, listening to the waves of the ocean, or even standing in the middle of a field with the butterflies and bees, I gain a sense of being unencumbered for that moment. It is in those moments that the creative process begins to unfold.” History and Process of Cyanotypes Cyanotypes were first introduced in 1842 by the astronomer, scientist and botanist John Herschel to find a way of reproducing his notes. Anna Atkins, in 1843, used Herschel’s unique process to make photogram prints by laying algae specimens directly on the photosensitive paper. After a decade, she eventually produced three volumes of her book: ‘Photographs of British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions’. Her detailed cyanotypes of the specimens led her to be considered the first female photographer. Cyanotype is one of the oldest photographic printing processes in the history of photography. Light sensitive chemicals are applied to paper. Items such as plants, objects, film negatives are placed on the surface. After exposing under a UV light source, the surface is developed with water and a blue and white image appears. “Healthy Soil, Healthy Plants, Healthy People, Healthy Planet”