Photograms

Photogram by Farah Shaikh (class of 13)

Background:
Photograms (or rayograms) were made famous by photographer, Man Ray but they were actually invented by from 1843, Anna Atkins, who illustrated the book, British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions which was the first book illustrated with photographs, which were solely photograms of botanical specimens.

Assignment:
For this assignment you must study photograms and create two photograms yourself.

2 Photograms must be passed in. *They must contain different objects and look like two different compositions.

Steps:

1. Study photograms from master artists.
2. Compile objects to experiment with for photograms.
3. Play with your objects in order to find a pleasing composition.
4. Place your paper under the enlarger. *Do not use a filter.
5. Place your objects on the paper.
6. Run the enlarger for about 4-8 seconds depending on your objects.
7. Develop using the normal chemistry.

Objectives:

• Review the elements and principles in order to utilize them in your composition.
• Think abstractly in order to create an abstract composition from real objects.
• Study photograms of master artists in order to utilize their techniques and ideas.

Grading Criteria:

• Craftsmanship
• Work habits
• Concept
• Design
• Technical Quality

Self-Critique Questions:

• How did you place your objects on the paper to create a harmonious composition?
• What objects did you use and why do those work when making photograms?
• How did you utilize the techniques used by master artists like Man Ray and Christian Schad?

Tips:

• Before you begin in the darkroom, be sure to play with the placement of objects on your paper. What makes the best photogram?
• Remember, no cheesiness. We are striving for fine art.
• Plants work really well. Try them.
• Transparent objects also work well.

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