what is encaustic?

Encaustic is made up of natural beeswax and damar resin (tree sap) that are melted together and used as a painting medium. The addition of the damar increases the translucency and the hardness of the wax, making it extremely archival once fully cured. Pigments can be added to the wax and it is heated to a molten state for painting. The wax is added to a rigid substrate in several layers and requires the fusing of each subsequent layer to the layer beneath, resulting in a   beautiful translucency that is unique to this process. 

do you take requests for commissioned paintings? 

I would be delighted to work together with you to create the piece of art that is part of your hopes and dreams! Please contact me to discuss the details of this process. 

Please note that because I am committed  to providing each of my collectors with original works, I will not attempt an exact replication of an existing piece. Because of the serendipitous nature of working with the wax I can come close to creating a desired effect, but never an exact replica. 

how do I look after my encaustic art? 

Like any piece of original art, encaustics should not be displayed in direct sunlight or subjected to extreme temperatures. 

During the first year the beeswax will occasionally “bloom” and look a bit cloudy. This is a normal part of the curing process of this organic medium. Using the palm of your hand or the cloth I will provide you with, gently buff the surface once every couple of months.  As time passes your art will become more clear and the translucency between the wax layers will continue to increase. Once fully cured your encaustic art will be completely archival and will harden to a beautiful resin like finish. 

do you teach encaustics?

I have taught a basic encaustic workshop in the past and thoroughly enjoyed the experience, but I have no plans to do so in my immediate future. I will be sure to update/post of any future possibilities as they arise. I do, however, believe in transparency and the idea of benefitting from shared experiences, so I welcome your questions at any time and I will be happy to share with you. I know from experience that I am truly grateful for the artists who have taken this generous approach with me. 

will my encaustic painting melt?

Your encaustic art will not melt under normal interior circumstances. The medium will not melt unless exposed to temperatures over 150° F (65° C).

Like any artwork, please do not place in direct sunlight.