Magic Lantern Darkroom Printing Workshop

Working in Positive Light Projects' new analogue darkroom we will exploring our collection of historic magic lantern slides of Exeter and use them to produce experimental photographic prints.

Magic lantern slides are photographic transparencies that were used in early projection devices; magic lanterns were popular from the 17th to the early 20th centuries and are the forerunners of today’s data projectors. The slides typically consist of an image painted or photographically printed on glass. When illuminated and projected onto a screen, the images would be enlarged and could be used for storytelling, education, or entertainment. Magic lantern shows often included a mix of images, music, and narration, making them a precursor to modern forms of visual entertainment like film and slideshows.

During the workshop, after a brief introduction to the medium by Professor John Plunkett (University of Exeter), participants will have the opportunity to explore the slides from our collection and view them through antique magic lantern projectors. They will then select a small number of slides and use them to make paper negatives using a simple contact printing process. These negatives will then be used to create enlargements from the slides. Each participant will be able to take home the range of prints they will make. No previous darkroom experience is necessary.

This event is part of a series of events led by the University of Exeter.