We spent a wonderful weekend doing a Tintype Popup at Pinecrest Historical Village in Manitowoc. The event was the Manitowoc Historical Society’s annual Makers Market. While there we did portraits of both visitors and as many of the Makers as we had time for. Here is an 8×10 tintype portrait of Emma, an historical pottery artist and creator.
What is a “Maker” and why do they need a Market? A Maker is someone who creates handcrafted items using historical methods and processes. Maker’s specialize in products that are heritage-inspired, well designed, long lasting and sustainably produced. Examples of Maker artists include blacksmiths, rope makers, tanners, wood workers, pottery, sewing and weaving, and of course Tintype photographers. The Market is about sharing our crafts and methods and selling our products.
This 8×10 portrait of Emma was done with my Wollensak Petzval Portrait lens on 8×10 inch aluminum plate. I think it captures both her natural beauty and her passion as she practices her historic craft.
This next plate, a 5×7 inch tintype, is of Emma decorating tiles. She is framed by some of her pottery. I especially love how her Red Earthenware Mugs were captured by the collodion process – they are almost glowing!
From her website www.emmajosephine.me “Emma Josephine is a Wisconsin based artist. She is both a teacher and a practicing artist / maker. Throughout her life Emma has been developing a deep love of slow processes and handmade possessions which comes through in her work in ceramics, fiber, and painting. She values the history and knowledge that has been passed down through art and handmade objects throughout the centuries. To be creating new things with historical processes and natural materials makes her feel connected to the past, and sharing these skills with others makes her hopeful for the future.”
You can also see some of Emma’s work on Instagram @ej_earth_ware
Are you a Maker or other Artist? I would love to hear from you! Contact Me so we can discuss capturing your portrait with the Historic Collodion Process.
More on the Tintype Collodion Process