Thomas Gibson Studio invites you to venture to Lecompton, Kansas — just a few minutes outside of Lawrence — to spend time with us in our 7,200 square-foot natural light studio.

This fall, on September 17, we’ll host an introductory, entry-level seminar for curious artists of all skill levels and interests. “Ambrotype 101” introduces you to the history of the Ambrotype photography process. After a brief overview of the history and fundamentals of the process, you’ll then jump right in to preparing your own wet plate image.

As the weather cools down and fall finally arrives, you’ll be able to come back to the studio for another introductory seminar on classic photography processes. If you miss us in September, join us on October 21 for an overview of the Ferrotype/Tintype process and a day of hands-on learning and creativity.

Each session kicks off with an overview of past, present and future wet-plate photographers as well as a lesson in photographic chemistry and suggested inspirational reading lists before each attendee begins exposing a plate and varnishing his or her unique Ambrotype or Ferrotype/Tintype.

Space is limited to five spots per workshop so each attendee can fully experience and connect with everyone, myself included, for a more enriching session of truly hands-on learning.

For more information or to reserve your spot now, click the embedded flyer below.

In part two of the series “The Illustrated Hand,” we highlight four more collodion wet-plate photographs.

{The Promise No. 1}

The idea of “The Promise” mini-series is holding onto something special like being able to unlock a door to somewhere or taking a new adventure. It’s holding onto the strength and promise to explore new areas.

{The Promise No. 2}

“The Promise No. 2” is more about exploring the strength and hope we all possess to dream and pursue.

{The Promise No. 3}

{The War and the Rose}

“The War and the Rose” is the contrast of brutality and innocence. It’s this dichotomy that creates the power of this metaphor. This is one of the darker ones in this series.