HEY! WHERE IS THE WARNING? CYANOTYPE IS CHEMISTRY, NOT JUST CRAFTS!

 HEY! WHERE IS THE WARNING? CYANOTYPE IS CHEMISTRY, NOT JUST CRAFTS!

I’m seeing cyanotype printing everywhere on social media lately, and as a photographer who has hand-printed hundreds of photographs, I’m concerned and frankly upset by the lack of safety information in some demonstrations.

Traditional cyanotype uses two chemicals: ferric ammonium citrate and potassium ferricyanide. These are not simply harmless art supplies. They require proper handling, storage and disposal.

I’m watching people rinse their prints with garden hoses directly onto lawns without any discussion of where the chemical runoff goes or what it might mean for the environment.

Potassium ferricyanide can release highly toxic hydrogen cyanide gas under strongly acidic conditions. Skin and eye protection, safe handling and proper disposal instructions matter.

And what happens when these kits become Christmas presents for children?

Will parents know what chemicals are in the box? Will children understand the precautions? Will leftover solutions be poured down the sink or rinsed into the garden? Will anyone explain what NOT to do?

Where are the warnings in these videos? Where is the information about chemical safety and environmental responsibility?

I’m not saying people shouldn’t enjoy cyanotype photography. I’m saying that demonstrating a chemical photographic process without discussing its risks and precautions is irresponsible.

As artists, photographers and educators, we have a duty to share the whole picture — not just the pretty blue prints.

BEAUTIFUL ART SHOULD NEVER COME AT THE EXPENSE OF INFORMED SAFETY.

#Cyanotype #ArtSafety #ChemicalSafety #EnvironmentalProtection #ResponsibleArt