EncaustiCamp 2015

For the past few years, I've wanted to attend EncaustiCamp and this July I finally made it happen! It was a wonderful experience to spend a week in a beautiful setting amongst other creative people. I chose the Track 2 route, which was intended to be an open studio of sorts for experienced encaustic painters, with the benefit of having instructors there if guidance was needed. I learned a lot from instructors Patricia Baldwin Seggebruch, Sue Stover, Michelle Belto, and Crystal Neubauer. I also learned from my fellow attendees as many of them were also experienced artists. I returned home with a list of new ideas I want to explore. On our "off day," I was lucky enough to visit the studios of three successful encaustic artists in the Seattle area. It was an inspiring experience to see the work and creative spaces of artists Willow Bader, Larry Calkins, and Stephanie Hargrave, they were all very generous with their time and expertise.

Willow Bader's pallet. She works on the wall using french cleats.

I would love to own one of Willow Bader's dinner table paintings!

Larry Calkin's work. A waxed pillowcase with buttons, thread and all around awesomeness.

Larry Calkin's studio

Stephanie Hargrave's work.

Stephanie Hargrave's studio

Work by fellow EncaustiCamp attendees produced during the week.

What is Encaustic?

I’ve gotten several questions from friends and family about what exactly is encaustic painting.

The word encaustic originates from the Greek word enkaustikos  which means to burn in. It’s been around a long time. It was used in the Fayum mummy portraits from Egypt around 100-300 AD. You might also be familiar with Jasper Johns’ flag paintings.

The process involves using heated beeswax usually combined with damar resin (but not always) to which pigments are added.  The melted wax mixture is then applied to a surface.  A heat gun, blow torch, or metal tools can be used to shape the paint before it cools and to manipulate the wax once it has cooled onto the surface. Applying heat allows you to extend the amount of time you have to work with the material. You can build up many, many layers. It can be smooth or heavily textured. It can be carved into or sculpted and you can embed stuff in it. It’s an incredibly versatile medium which is why I love it!

Jasper Johns, Flag above White with Collage, 1955. Encaustic and collage on canvas.

Fayum Mummy Portrait

Welcome

I started this blog to share my process and journey as an artist. It's a space to share the things that inspire me and catch my eye. Just like my art, I’m sure this blog will evolve over time. Thanks for coming along for the ride!

I have some good news to share with you right off the bat, two of my pieces can currently be seen at the Southwest School of Art’s annual juried All School Exhibition. I’m honored that both of my entries were chosen.

The exhibition has been on view since July 18th and will be up until August 30th. It’s at the Russell Hill Rogers Galleries and it’s free and open to the public.

Update: Both pieces sold. Hooray!