Make a Photogram: An Art Project for Sunny Days

Anna Atkins (British, 1799–1871). Spiraea aruncus (Tyrol), 1851–54. Cyanotype; Image: 13 13/16 x 9 11/16 in. (35.1 x 24.6 cm). The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, Purchase, Alfred Stieglitz Society Gifts, 2004 (2004.172)

«Summer is in full swing here in New York City: school is out, the Roof Garden is buzzing with activity, and you can't walk far without hearing the jingle of an ice cream truck. Wherever you are, make the most of your bright, sunny days with a fun art activity of making photograms!»

Roughly translated from Greek, the word photogram means "light drawing"—meaning you can use the sun's rays to create amazing pieces of art. All you need is sun-sensitive paper, which is available online and at art stores. You can put objects, plants, or shapes onto the paper to create interesting compositions. Let it sit in the sun for a bit, and then: Ta-da! You've made a photogram. Get inspired by these works of art in The Met collection.

Left: László Moholy-Nagy (American (born Hungary), 1895–1946). Fotogramm, 1926. Gelatin silver print; 9 7/16 x 7 1/16 in. (23.9 x 17.9 cm). The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, Ford Motor Company Collection, Gift of Ford Motor Company and John C. Waddell, 1987 (1987.1100.158). © 2016 Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York. Right: Adam Fuss (British, born 1961). Now!, 1988. Gelatin silver print; 66 3/4 x 51 in. (169.5 x 129.5 cm) Frame: 69 3/4 x 54 in. (177.2 x 137.2 cm). The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, Purchase, The Horace W. Goldsmith Foundation Gift, through Joyce and Robert Menschel, 1991 (1991.1127). © Adam Fuss

Now follow along with Skyler, age 7, in #MetKids—Make a Photogram to learn how to make a photogram:

Do you have any favorite art activities for sunny days? Share them with us!