Encaustic Art
HISTORY
Encaustic Painting is one of the oldest art forms we know, and dates back to 2500 B.C. It appears on the statues outside of the Acropolis and on pieces dug from ancient Egyptian tombs.
BASIC TECHNIQUE
The basic technique is to melt the colored wax onto the heat surface of the iron and then use the iron to paint the image onto a special high gloss card stock. This may sound quite simple, but in fact, when working with heat it is very easy to change the surface instantly… and not always the desired way. I spent months with little more than brown blobs of wax from the accidental melting of colors together.
Most of my designs are on a special card stock which allows the easy movement of the wax… I have, however, discovered many other surfaces that will allow for the bright colors and deep texture I desire, as well as the larger sizes that have been requested and commissioned by clients. As I learn more and more about the art, I imagine I will experiment with different surfaces and tools.
CARE FOR ENCAUSTIC PAINTINGS
To protect your matted encaustic wax painting, at least those done on cardstock, I recommend it be framed behind glass. If you choose to leave your painting unframed, please be aware that wax is soft and can easily be scratched. Also, as with any other piece of fine art, do not hang painting in direct sunlight.
FAQ
How do you create these paintings?
For most of my paintings I use a special low heat iron made specifically for encaustic painting. I melt the colored wax onto the heat surface of the iron and then use the iron to "paint" the image onto the surface. Image that this iron is the paintbrush and the wax itself is the paint.
Is this a new art form?
Actually, Encaustic Painting is one of the oldest art forms we know. It dates back to 2500 B.C. and is how most cave drawings were created.
So this is like batique?
Actually, quite the opposite. Instead of putting wax where you don't want a design, the wax actually creates the design.
Why haven't I heard about it before now?
Encaustic Painting is just recently making a comeback. While popular in Europe, there are not many Encaustic artists in the United States, and those in the US are generally found on the coasts.
Will it melt?
Pure beeswax has a melting point of 142°. Color additives may decrease the melting point by a few degrees, but it is pretty safe to say that at a temperature of 120° or less you should have no worries. I would think that if your house is over 120° you have other problems! :)
How do I frame and care for an Encaustic painting?
Encaustic paintings should be matted and framed like a watercolor painting - under glass. If the surface gets fingerprints on it, wipe gently with a tissue before framing. I recommend hanging out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources.
What does Encaustic mean?
Encaustic literally means "to burn in."
Can I buy artwork off the website?
Actually, you can access those items I have for sale by clicking
Alexah Strongheart’s Online Store
How big can you make the paintings?Without matting, the largest would be 4 feet by 8 feet.
Can you create a painting specifically for me?
Yes. I do a good deal of commission work, which means that I create paintings specifically for an individual. I would be happy to talk with you about creating a painting specifically for you as well.
Feel free to email me with specific or general questions, and if you would like me to call you, leave your phone number and a good time to call.
alexah@ artbystrongheart.com
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