Ottawa artist Christine Fitzgerald in collaboration with renowned marine conservation scientist Dr. Lyne Morissette will lead a public workshop teaching participants from the Grand Métis area and Lower St. Lawrence communities how to create blue cyanotypes, one-of-a-kind prints made by exposing river specimens on light-sensitive paper and fabric.

During the workshop, participants will learn the importance of conserving marine and coastal biodiversity as allies in our fight against the impact of climate change. Key indigenous botanical riverfront specimens and underwater forests will be linked to their important role in marine life.

The blue images will be created without a camera using the most basic elements on earth – water from the river, light from the sun, minerals from the land for the light-sensitive paper, and natural river specimens. Participants will begin by creating prints using specimens from the St. Lawrence River and move to the creation of a large triptych fabric mural installation. The event will provide an opportunity to showcase collaboration between creative action and scientific research, as well as community engagement in environmental stewardship.

Artist: Christine Fitzgerald

Scientist: Dr. Lyne Morissette

Location: Les Jardin de Métis, Métis QC