Photography
Photography was my first love in the visual arts. During my BFA program, I majored in photographic arts, where I developed a deep passion for conceptual and constructed imagery. By integrating studio lighting, textiles, still life, and portraiture into my work, I discovered how photography could serve as a powerful medium to translate abstract ideas and embodied experiences into compelling visual narratives.
While immersed in the study of photography, I also had the unique opportunity to share some of the skills and knowledge I acquired in the classroom and bring them into community art spaces.
Photography at the Creative Works Studio
As part of the Community Arts Practice certificate program at York University, I had the opportunity to work as a practicum student at Creative Works Studio—a mental health arts outreach program in Toronto dedicated to making art accessible to individuals facing mental health challenges. During my time there, I facilitated various activities and workshops, including:
Guided Group Photo Walks: Teaching camera fundamentals, developing a photographic eye, exploring theme-based photography, and applying creative techniques to capture landscapes, architecture, and nature.
Studio Lighting: Introducing light meters, lighting kits, and setup techniques for photographing still lifes and portraits using backdrops.
One-on-One Mentorship: Assisting participants in translating ideas into images, guiding project development, providing technical support, and offering constructive feedback.
Digital Photography: Covering the fundamentals of digital photography software such as Lightroom and Photoshop, along with essential digital editing techniques.
Photography Exhibition: Guiding participants through the process of printing, selecting, and installing images for display in a gallery space.
Through this experience, I deepened my commitment to using photography as a tool for creative expression and community engagement.
Photography at The Banff Centre
I had the privilege of participating in the Visual Arts Work/Study practicum program in photography at the renowned Banff Centre in Banff, Alberta. In this role, I assisted visiting artists with large-scale digital printing, studio lighting setups as well as analog film development and printing (both black and white and color). I also helped maintain the digital print lab, darkrooms, and lighting studio.
Additionally, I had the honor of being mentored by esteemed photographers and artists Sarah Fuller, Diane Bos, and Andreas Rutkauskas, whose guidance profoundly enriched my artistic and technical skills
Cyanotype Photography and Photogram Workshops
During this practicum, I had the opportunity to lead several workshops on alternative photography techniques, such as Cyanotype Photography and Photograms, for artists in residence at the Banff Centre.Additionally, I co-facilitated Sun Prints and Plants – A Cyanotype and Plant Community Workshop with Elder Helmer Youngsmen at the Cave and Basin in Banff, Alberta.
What is Cyanotype?
Cyanotype is a simple yet captivating alternative photographic process that uses a UV light-sensitive chemical solution to create striking cyan-colored prints. This process is both accessible and enjoyable, requiring no prior experience
The cyanotype process can be done using photographic negatives, drawings on translucent paper, or various objects to create unique photographic prints. It is a simple, safe, and enjoyable technique for producing striking images on paper, canvas, fabric, and other surfaces.
Workshop Objectives
In this hands-on workshop, students will learn:
The fundamentals of cyanotype—what it is and how it works.
A brief history of cyanotype photography.
Notable artists who have worked with cyanotype, including Anna Atkins (1799–1871), the first woman photographer.
Step-by-step instructions on safe chemical mixing and application.
Different methods and materials for cyanotype creation.
Proper Techniques for exposing and washing prints.