In this unique workshop, each participant makes their own wet-plate collodion
ambrotype self-portrait. First, the Ostermans give a demonstration of the
process. Then participants are guided step by step through the process using
original 19th century equipment. From pouring the plate to the final varnish,
each attendee receives individual attention, and hands-on experience.
Attendees are provided with a manual which includes theory, step by step
instructions, chemical formulas and sources. Each one day workshop is limited
to eight participants. This program is ideal for conservators, collectors,
photo historians, photographers of all levels, and artists. Attendees do not
need to have prior photographic experience.
Publishers of The Collodion Journal, quarterly, the Ostermans currently are
guest scholars at George Eastman House where they are attending the
photographic conservation program. This year, they are also making collodion
images in their own studio in Rochester.
Fee is $125. Phone GEH: (716) 271-3361 ext. 325; or email: workshop@geh.org.
(Spaces fill up fast.)
or contact:
Mark and France Scully Osterman
c/o George Eastman House, 900 East Ave. Rochester, NY 14607
716-235-0486
sculloster@aol.com
*The wet-plate collodion process, popular from 1851 to the mid-1880s, involves
flowing glass (or iron) plates with iodized collodion and dipping the coated
plates in silver nitrate solution. The wet plate must then be exposed and
developed before the coating dries. All field work requires the photographer
to carry a darkroom for on-site processing of the plates. Ambrotypes,
ferrotypes, wet-plate negatives and lantern slides were all made using the
collodion process.