Open House & Darkroom Tours

Join Clyde’s darkroom assistants on Saturday, September 21st for a day of darkroom tours. Tours are 45 minutes and tickets are $10 each. We recommend booking soon, because these tours always sell out!

Clyde Butcher’s darkroom is located in Venice, Florida. This 2,200 square foot sanctuary is where his iconic black-and-white landscape photography comes to life. Clyde’s darkroom is the largest privately owned darkrooms in the U.S. and is specifically dedicated to printing his mural sized darkroom photographs.

During your tour, you will get an understanding of the darkroom space and the printing process explained.

In the darkroom, view and appreciate:

• Large Format Enlargers: Massive custom-built enlargers that can handle prints up to 5x9 feet.
• Negatives: See a large format negative in person. This size negatives provide incredible detail and tonal range.
• Special Techniques and Tools: Learn about dodging and burning, precise timing, and see some of Clyde’s custom tools.
• Developing Trays: Custom trays for hand-developing Butcher’s oversized prints and learn about the chemical balance in creating perfect prints.

You will also get a chance to discover Butcher’s custom equipment, some of which he built or modified for use in his darkroom and hear stories about his landscape adventures.

Leave with a newfound appreciation for the craftsmanship and dedication behind Butcher’s stunning works of art. This tour offers a unique insight into the world of large-format photography and Clyde Butcher’s genius.

In addition, the gallery will be open for viewing Clyde’s larger-than-life silver gelatin photographs, books, and gifts. The gallery staff will be available to assist.

Please note Clyde will not be present for this event.

Cancellation policy

Due to limited spacing for this event refund requests must be submitted 48 hours before the event is scheduled. Eventbrite fees are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, please let us know as soon as possible so we may open space for other attendees. Please call our Venice Gallery & Studio if you have questions at (941) 486-0811 or email [email protected] give 48-hour notice to receive a refund. Eventbrite fees are non-refundable.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Clyde Butcher Venice Gallery & Studio, 237 Warfield Avenue, Venice, United States