We’ve been working on this project for a few months and we’re pleased to announce the EAC Photography Darkroom is open to the public!
We’re hosting the first open days on Friday 30th May and Saturday 3st May, with the darkroom open 12pm to 4pm with one of our photography tutors in attendance. Anyone is welcome to drop in and look around, and you’ll even have the chance to try the kit by making a photogram to add to our exhibition (suggested donation £5 per print). Children are welcome but they must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.
Creating the darkroom has given us the opportunity to lean into sustainable methods, as we’ve been able to source all the kit as donations or save it from dusty cupboards. The starting point was the donation of a full pop-up darkroom kit from local photographer Adele, and we couldn’t have made it this far without the help of photographer & technician Sarah who tested and sourced all kinds of extras for us, including a second enlarger, and teacher & photographer Adrian who will be one of our available tutors.
There’s potential for colour in future, but right now we’re set up to develop black & white prints (these can be printed from black & white or colour negatives). Our photography tutors can talk to you about developing black & white films in the darkroom.
Between us, we have created a fully functional darkroom in the auditorium. There are 2 full size enlargers alongside a standard tray set-up for developing prints, and a kitchen with running water close by. We have kit available for developing black & white films so you take follow your photos start to finish. When the darkroom is in use the space is lit in red to avoid any light leaks.
The darkroom will soon be available to hire in half-day sessions on specified days, at £100 for the space plus £100 for a one-on-one tutor (which we recommend for at least the first session even for experienced photographers). We’ll walk you through the space, make sure you understand the safety procedures, and you’ll never be left alone in the building. The tutor will be able to take you through developing film or printing images step-by-step, offering advise based on their years or experience.
If you have any questions, please contact Louisa at the EAC using the form below.