Seaweed Printing Workshop

Join us as we explore the intriguing world of seaweeds through science and art with seaweed expert Dr Reina Veenhof and professional artist Christina Riley. Learn how to create your own beautiful cyanotype prints whilst listening to kelp expert Dr Veenhof discussing the importance of these underwater forests and the rare insight they give us into the marine world surrounding us on Arran.

Take the time to slow down, connect with others and learn about these incredible habitats.

The session will start with an informal discussion with Dr Veenhof about the life cycles of kelp and seaweeds, the services they provide us and their use in understanding our warming oceans. Christina will then explain her relationship through a photographer's lens and teach you how to create your own cyanotype using a printing process first invented in 1842 - all whilst surrounded by real life sea creatures in our catch and release tanks at the Discovery Centre. Christina will also show you how to use household items to make your own pressed seaweed display to create at your leisure. With expert knowledge at your disposal and artistic guidance from Christina, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the incredible underwater world that surrounds Arran.

No prior experience required and pricing includes all materials, Christina and Dr Veenhof's expertise and guidance, hot drinks and biscuits throughout, as well as directly supporting COAST's work in protecting Arran's seas.

About the experts

Dr Reina Veenhof

A marine ecologist who works on climate change and kelp forests. She mainly works with the early life stages of kelps, trying to improve their stress resilience for overall healthier kelp forests. Her current work focusses on understanding the impacts of ocean warming on Alaria esculenta, one of the most cold-adapted kelp species in the UK.

Christina Riley

A Florida-born, Ayrshire-based photographer and author of "Looking Down at the Stars: Life Beneath the Waves" and "The Beach Today". Her practice focuses on small details of the natural world, particularly in coastal and underwater environments, and looks to the book form as a way of blending visual and written elements of her work. The influence of books and reading on her practice led her in 2019 to start The Nature Library, exploring the role of literature in times of climate crisis through library installations, writing, artist’s books and collaborations with arts and ecological organisations.

1. Workshop designed for ages 16+
2. Under 18's must attend with a full paying participating adult