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stone and mixed media sculpture,
"Earthprints" and "Secrets series"
| History Encaustic painting was practiced by Greek artists as far back as the 5th century B.C. The Greeks applied coatings of wax and resin to weatherproof and decorate their ships. The nature of
encaustic to both preserve and color led to its use on the stone
work of both architecture and statuary. Decorative terra cotta work
on interiors was also painted with encaustic, which preceded mosaics.
In the 18th century, encaustic painting was re-examined in order
to rediscover the techniques of the ancient painters. It was explored
in the 19th century to solve the dampness problems of mural painters
in northern climates. A soft wax painting medium can be created by the addition of turpentine to the melted wax mixture but care must be used to prevent fire and this must be done in a well ventilated area. This can be very toxic and can make the encaustic soft. Encaustics, except for very small ones, must be done on rigid panels. Unprimed wood or masonite is a suitable grounds. For small pieces, heavy watercolor paper or mat board can be used. Care Pearl Fine
Art Supplies
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