Brilliance in Blue was created in 2022. After a career teaching Biology and Chemistry Ruth decided to blend the 2 disciplines and create artwork using the cyanotype method. Cyanotype is the name for ‘blueprinting’, a Victorian invention that produces images in characteristic Prussian blue and white. The 1st book to be published in the UK that did not use hand drawings was by the botanist, Anna Atkins, using cyanotypes in 1843. I use her as my inspiration.
I use botanical specimens collected from the Northamptonshire countryside to make my cyanotypes. On walks with my lively Spaniel, I forage for plants which I then press to preserve; I try to consider the environment. The process itself is very environmentally friendly using UV light and water only.
By altering the process using spices and natural inks I am able to create more depth and tone in the artwork. Recently I have made more abstract art. I still use the Cyanotype process but have pushed the medium beyond the blue palette into the copper, gold and green hues.
Cyanotype can be used on a variety of mediums including silk and fine handmade papers. I use these to create botanical prints on scarves, lampshades and hand bound notebooks. I could never recreate an image and never make prints. You can be assured that your Cyanotype is truly one-of-a-kind.
Brilliance in Blue runs several different workshops from April – September in a beautiful garden setting with a plentiful supply of coffee and homemade cake!
0.30-1.30pm. £40Each workshop aims to teach you a little about the history of cyanotype and then you will be guided through the process to create your own unique artworks. With small group sizes of 4 you can be assured of all the support you may need. The workshops are accessible to all ages and abilities and are run from my Garden Studio in Nassington. Please book via my website www.brillianceinblue.com/workshops
Bespoke Workshops
Bespoke workshops can be arranged for midweek or weekends, daytime or evening. These have been popular and are a great way to get a group of friends together or to celebrate a birthday or special occasion. All I ask is that there are 4 of you (2 if making lampshades). I have gift vouchers (multiples of £10) available as well to be used against a workshop or to buy a cyanotype. Again please contact me via the website to discuss your ideas. www.brillianceinblue.com/contact
Larger Group Taster Workshops.
I am happy to come to your group to give a talk about Cyanotype and then do a taster session. Previously I have been booked for Ladies groups, WI groups, schools and art groups. Please email me at www.brillianceinblue.com/contact if you think your group would enjoy this.
Images on the PAOS.org.uk website are the copyright property of the artists or groups named. Please contact the artists using the details they have listed here for more information or to obtain permissions for use.
Contact name
Ruth Rigby
Exhibition address
61 Station Road, Nassington, Peterborough, PE8 6QB
Open days
27 June 2026 (11am-4pm)
28 June 2026 (11am-4pm)
4 July 2026 (3pm-5pm)
5 July 2026 (3pm-5pm)
11 July 2026 (11am-4pm)
12 July 2026 (11am-4pm)
Demonstrations available
No
Tuition offered
Yes
Garden open for visitors
Yes
Refreshments served
No
Commissions accepted
Yes
