Understanding Photography as Applied Chemistry: Using Talbot’s Calotype Process To Introduce Chemistry to Design Students
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Esther S. Rösch [1] ; Silke Helmerdig [1]
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[1] Pforzheim University of Applied Sciences
Pforzheim University of Applied Sciences
Stadtkreis Pforzheim, Alemania
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- Localización: Journal of chemical education, ISSN 0021-9584, Vol. 94, Nº 7, 2017, págs. 916-921
- Idioma: inglés
- Texto completo no disponible (Saber más ...)
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Resumen
Early photography processes were predestined to combine chemistry and art. William Henry Fox Talbot is one of the early photography pioneers. In 2–3 day workshops, design students without a major background in chemistry are able to define a reproducible protocol for Talbot’s gallic acid containing calotype process. With the experimental concept presented herein, students can be taught to approach an issue in a systematic way, to practice their problem solving skills, and to experience chemistry in a hands-on learning environment. Students are coached individually in accordance with their progress. The students can understand the chemical process, manipulate it, and translate it into artwork. However, the molecular interpretation of a photograph is the means to an end. Photography is a well-known, ubiquitous process, and even today, young students are fascinated by the moment when the picture becomes visible in the dark room. Labor intensive photographs are appreciated in a different way than images taken with digital cameras or smartphones. Students succeeded in formulating a reproducible protocol for the calotype process and are able to pass on their knowledge to fellow students.
