As a self-taught artist working in encaustic, I explore the medium's capacity for depth, texture and transformation. My process is intuitive and experimental, often incorporating natural materials, found objects, and handmade elements. Inspired by the quiet complexity of the natural world and beauty often overlooked, I create layered, tactile works that invite close inspection and curiosity.

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Encaustic painting dates back 2000 years as an art form for Roman and Egyptian cultures, with the word encaustic derived from the Greek word “encaustica” which means to burn in. Encaustic wax is heated and applied to a substrate, building a base of layered wax, each layer fused to the layer beneath. The depth created allows for incising and accretion techniques, developing texture and depth. Mediums such as oil sticks, pan pastels, alcohol ink and India ink can be applied and fused to each layer adding dimension, color and interest. I follow this process of building a foundation of wax, and intuitively transform and enhance the wax by adding other mediums, materials and elements that speak to the journey of each piece. Encaustic invites creativity and challenges me as an artist to explore the endless possibilities, which are only limited by my imagination.

Connect with Susan 

Studio 100 Art

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