Encaustics
A creative introduction to encaustics: the ageless wax technique with current creative trends in art
Artist Statement: I’m a third generation, self-taught artist and much of my ability is intrinsic. It’s just in me to apply my gifting to whatever medium pulls my attention at that moment. I’m humbly amazed at times by what falls from my brush or pen. I enjoy harmonizing multiple art processes to create something unique; something that draws the new friend to linger.
Artist Autobiography: I was born in Germany and some of my earliest memories are castles, paintings, and shelves lined with books full of lovely illustrations. My Grandmother and mother both paint, so I’ve grown up around creative process the whole of my life. Genetics? Environment? Yes, but so much more. I’m creative because He is creative. Being made in His likeness, I am creative. When I yielded this gift back to Him, He blessed it all the more.
In 2016 my son was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumor. Hours in hospital rooms led to the need for “creative venting”. At the same time, I met a wonderful counselor and she wisely told me to find something to “feed my soul” during this season of pain. I stumbled upon a unique process; encaustics. I was hooked, and I needed a diversion that was outside my wheelhouse. In one hand I hold my torch, the paintbrush, and wax in the other and I haven’t looked back. My Grandmother was a formal Tole painter, my mother loves oil; wax just hadn’t been done…..yet. As far as process goes it all starts with inspiration with me. I enjoy breaking some of the “rules” and seeing what happens when I combine cousins in the art world. Something remarkable happens when you take two art forms and do a mash-up. I hope you enjoy what you see, and what you felt when you saw it.
Here is reference to
Encaustic: http://www.eainm.com/what-is-encaustic/
What Is Encaustic?
Encaustic is a Greek word meaning “to heat or burn in” (enkaustikos). Heat is used throughout the process, from melting the beeswax and varnish to fusing the layers of wax. Encaustic consists of natural bees wax and dammar resin (crystallized tree sap). The medium can be used alone for its transparency or adhesive qualities or used pigmented. Pigments may be added to the medium, or purchased colored with traditional artist pigments. The medium is melted and applied with a brush or any tool the artist wishes to create from. Each layer is then reheated to fuse it to the previous layer.
Care of Encaustic Art
These paintings are extremely archival, but as with any fine art, care should be given to them. There should be no fear of the work melting in normal household conditions. The wax and resin will not melt unless exposed to temperatures over 150 degrees Fahrenheit. Leaving a painting in a car on a hot day would not be advisable or hanging a painting in front of a window with direct desert-like sun. They are also sensitive to freezing cold temperatures.
Some encaustic colors tend to “bloom” or become cloudy over time. If your painting appears indistinct, simply rub the surface with a soft cloth or nylon stocking. Over time the surface retains its gloss as the wax medium continues to cure and harden for up to 1-3 years.
