Gum Bichromate Printing - Spring 2026

Dive into the experimental and creative 19th century photographic process known as gum bichromate printing, which combines light sensitive emulsion with pigments to generate uniquely layered images.

This course will focus on the use of CMYK color separation digital negatives to create monotone, duotone, and tri-color gum prints. Students will experiment with layering of color combinations using watercolor pigments combined with the UV light sensitive emulsion to achieve semi and full CMYK color prints. Discussion and demonstrations will help students understand methods in choosing appropriate images for the process; students will need to be prepared with a selection of possible digital image files to utilize for creating digital negatives throughout the quarter.

Upon completion of the class, students will walk away with foundational knowledge of the gum bichromate printing workflow (including digital negatives), emulsion ratios, and coating methods, and practice with embracing creative experimentation and imperfection.

IMPORTANT NOTES FOR STUDENTS

• Weekly attendance is vital to student success in PCNW courses. We require that students attend the first meeting in order to retain their spot in the class. A waiver may be granted if permission is given by, and subsequent arrangements made with, both the PCNW Registrar and Faculty. Please see our Education Policies for details about attendance policies and academic expectations.
• PCNW adheres to a strict payment, cancellation and refund policy. Please review our Payment & Refund Policies prior to registration.
• Additional materials and supplies, not covered by a materials fee for a course, are the responsibility of the student. Detailed information about course expectations, required texts and materials will be provided at the start of the quarter.
• Students should prepare to spend several hours per week completing assignments outside of class, which may require use of the PCNW facilities; view our Rental Rates for details about additional fees. Rental fees for use of PCNW Facilities are a separate cost from tuition.

Images © Aunna Moriarty