Conferva læte-virens [lætevirens] c. 1843 - 1853

Anna Atkins made this cyanotype – an early photographic process that produces a cyan-blue print – in the mid-19th century. It’s a direct record of seaweed specimens, laid on treated paper and exposed to sunlight. What’s fascinating here is the intersection of science and art. Atkins wasn't just creating a pretty picture; she was meticulously documenting botanical specimens. The cyanotype process itself has a scientific aspect, relying on a chemical reaction to capture the form of the seaweed. Look at the delicate details rendered in white against the blue background. The texture and structure of the seaweed are beautifully preserved. Atkins' work is so interesting because it challenges our assumptions about art and craft. She was using a scientific process to create something beautiful and informative. It’s a reminder that the act of making is always a dialogue between intention, material, and method. And that dialogue can yield unexpected and compelling results.