The Art Gallery of Burlington is rebuilding and growing its community darkroom in response to increasing interest in analogue photography.
Over the past several years, the AGB has seen an exciting resurgence in film photography. Young artists, students, emerging photographers and experienced makers are seeking opportunities to learn darkroom techniques and explore the tactile, hands-on processes of analogue photography.
Through workshops, camps, artist-led programs and studio access opportunities, the AGB has worked to support this renewed enthusiasm.
Moving Forward Together
Following Latow Photographers Guild’s recent decision to remove its darkroom equipment from the Gallery, the AGB is moving forward with plans to rebuild and re-equip the darkroom as a shared community resource.
Latow remains an active AGB Community Group Member, and we value the Guild’s continued participation in the Gallery’s photography community.
The AGB is also committed to maintaining and animating the darkroom throughout our continued operation in the current building. Photography remains an important part of the Gallery’s studio offerings, learning programs and broader artistic community.
Rebuilding the Darkroom
To support the next chapter of the space, the AGB is working alongside a dedicated group of photography community members and active volunteers. Together, we are rebuilding, expanding and equipping a welcoming community darkroom where people can learn to develop film, make silver gelatin prints and experience analogue photography firsthand.
Rather than purchasing everything new, we hope to give a second life to equipment and materials that may no longer be in use in personal studios, schools, photography clubs or community organizations.
Community Call for Darkroom Donations
We are currently seeking donations of working darkroom equipment and supplies, including:
• Developing tanks
• Film reels for 35mm and 120 film
• Film clips
• Thermometers
• Graduated cylinders and measuring jugs
• Funnels and stirring rods
• Timers
• Chemical storage bottles in brown plastic or glass
• Film-drying racks or lines
• Enlargers for 35mm and medium-format photography
• Negative carriers
• Enlarging lenses, particularly 50mm and 80mm lenses
• Grain focusers
• Enlarging timers
• Printing trays in various sizes
• Printing tongs
• Safelights
• Print-drying screens
Whether it is a single printing tray, an enlarger that has been sitting unused or an entire darkroom setup, every contribution can make a meaningful difference.
For more information or to arrange a donation, please contact:
Suzanne Carte
Artistic Director & Curator
suzanne@agb.life
