Encaustic painting is a process of using melted beeswax mixed with damar resin (for hardening) and pigments to create a medium that can be used in many ways. It is a medium, which has lasted over 2000 years on funerary portraits done by the Greeks and Egyptians.
This exciting medium has enjoyed resurgence, first in the fifties and now in the past ten or so years. Artists are pushing the limits of this classic technique to produce paintings, works on paper, sculpture and mixed media pieces.
The only restriction is that the ground for the wax must be porous. Unsealed plywood, bisque fired clay, 300# watercolor paper… all of these are good bases to work with.
The wax and damar medium is kept liquid at a temperature of between 175º to 200º. The wax is bonded to the surface using a propane or butane torch or a hot air gun.
Hi! Who are you and what is this site for? How often will you post?
Hi Johan- I’m putting this site together to have an open discussion with people who are interested in Encaustic painting. I’ll do my best to post a blog entry once a week and will respond to any questions. I’ll also post new work as I finish each piece. I encourage questions and even seeing images from those who are interested in sharing their work.
I’ve been working with Encaustic medium for about 3 years. I’m originally a watercolor and acrylic artist, but have fallen in love with Encaustic painting because of it’s flexibility and sculptural qualities. I hope to hear from you again. If you want to see the full range of my work, pleae go to http://www.shutterandbrushfineart.com. Otherwise, visit when you can and you’ll see what I’m up to.
Hi, Teena! Your work is lovely! Will you be holding workshops for beginners any time soon? I fell in love with encaustic, too, and am enjoying your new blog on it.
Hi Melissa- I have been setting up workshops to fit people’s schedules. Let’s talk to see what time would work for both of us.