Blueprints of Waste: Cyanotypes Reimagined

In her book “Photographs of British Algae: Cyanotype Imperfections”, photographer Mandy Barker revives a Victorian photographic process to document a decade-long recovery of synthetic clothing fragments from the UK coastline.

Photographs by Mandy Barker

In 2012, photographer Mandy Barker spotted what she thought was seaweed in a rock pool, only to realize it was a fragment of synthetic fabric. That moment triggered a decade-long journey collecting discarded clothing from the British coastline, transforming waste into a powerful artistic project.

Jacket lining (Rhodomenia ignotus) © Mandy Barker

Patterned blouse (Laminaria materia) © Mandy Barker

Coat lining (Dichloria vestis) © Mandy Barker

Lining (with algae) (Grateloupia intra) © Mandy Barker

Inspired by pioneering botanist and photographer Anna Atkins’ cyanotypes of marine algae, Mandy Barker reimagines botanical forms through fragments of discarded textiles. Jackets, wigs, and underwear take on new meaning, prompting a reflection on our relationship with clothing and the environmental cost of what we wear.

The book “Photographs of British Algae: Cyanotype Imperfections” is published by GOST and available at the price of $75.00.