What is Encaustic?

As a contemporary Australian artist, I work in a sustainable art practice using the natural materials of encaustic medium and layered processes to explore environmental restoration and the interconnectedness of the natural world. Made from natural beeswax and damar resin (crystallised tree sap) that can be combined with artist pigments, encaustic enables me to build multi-layered surfaces that reflect light, texture and movement.

Encaustic painting is an ancient art form that was practiced by ancient Greeks more than 3000 years ago then later taken to Egypt. The word encaustic comes from the Greek word enkaustikos, meaning “to burn in”, referring to the process of fusing each layer with heat.

The paint is kept molten on a heated palette and brushed on to any solid, absorbent surface in successive layers. Each layer of medium must be ‘fused’ with heat so it bonds to the one beneath it. In my studio, I prefer to use a blowtorch to manipulate and fuse the wax, although heat guns and other heated tools may also be used.

Encaustic is a durable and archival medium. Beeswax naturally resists moisture and repels dust, it is photo reactive so it won’t yellow or darken and it preserves colour, while damar resin hardens the surface so it will not melt under normal conditions. Encaustic artworks remain stable and avoid major deterioration which is why encaustic paintings from antiquity have survived thousands of years.

Because beeswax is translucent, colour and texture can be built gradually in layers, creating luminous depth. Encaustic medium can be carved, scraped, layered, collaged, dipped, cast, modelled, sculpted or combined with oil paint, other media and embedded materials. Encaustic artworks may be buffed with a soft, lint free cloth to a obtain a high gloss finish.

For contemporary artists, encaustic offers a unique combination of ancient technique, organic materials and exceptional versatility of expression. In my practice it supports a mindful, sustainable approach to art that reflects both the beauty and fragility of the natural world.

Encaustic artworks you might enjoy …

The Fayum Funeral Portraits, 1st century BCE - 3rd century CE, Roman Egypt (painted by Greek-trained artists), various museums, including the British Museum and Lourve

Creation (Mural), Diego Rivera, 1922-23, Mexico, Museo Mural Diego Rivera, Mexico City

Flag, Jasper Johns, 1954-55, USA, Museum of Modern Art, (MoMA), New York

After Jack, Jenny Sages, 2012, Australia, National Portrait Gallery, Canberra