Learn how to create moving image phytograms on 16mm and 35mm motion picture film in this one-day workshop. Phytograms are a technique where plants soaked in vitamin C and washing soda are placed directly onto light-sensitive film or paper. The film is then exposed to the sun and washed in fixer, leaving behind chemical traces of the plants that once pressed against the emulsion.

After participants have created their moving image phytograms, they will have the opportunity to further manipulate the filmstrip through other cameraless filmmaking techniques such as tinting, toning, scratching, and painting. At the end of the day, we will project the 16mm film and scan the 35mm film, and Hannah will provide tips on how to digitize and screen these handmade films.

This workshop will serve as an introduction to direct filmmaking and open participants to the possibilities of making analog films without a camera.

Participants are welcome to bring in plants of their own or collect them outside of The Halide Project. Film, chemistry, paints, plants, and all supplies will be provided. No prior experience is necessary. 

Instructor bio:

Hannah Pitstick is a writer, photographer, filmmaker, and MFA candidate studying Film & Media Arts at Temple University in Philadelphia, where she has shown dozens of undergraduate students how to work with 16mm film. She is currently working on her thesis, which involves shooting 35mm black and white motion picture film and hand painting each frame in the style of early cinema. She is obsessed with the hands-on nature of analog filmmaking and believes learning to work directly with the filmstrip can unlock endless opportunities for experimentation. 

Workshop Withdrawal Policy

We recommend choosing workshops with care after reading our withdrawal policy. If you have questions about any of our workshops, please contact dale@thehalideproject.org

This workshop is generously sponsored by The Phillip and Edith Leonian Foundation.