The medium is not the message, but it sure is fun.

This newsletter is about the materials I paint with: encaustic – or hot wax.
Normally I don’t like to focus to much on what I paint with, because it’s the end result that matters. In other words, it’s the music you make,
not the instrument you use.

Encaustic is an unpredictable medium with tremendous versatility. There is no limit to the ways in ways it can be used: For example, in painting, sculpture, fiber, or art books.

Going clockwise, Lorrie Freddette sculpture, Elise Wagner paper print,
Paula Roland installation with lights, Lisa Pressman painting.

In my own work, there’s kind of surprise factor. When my paintings are seen from across the room, they resemble a scene, but you walk up and get “nose to nose,” they dissolve into lush, textured abstraction.

THE ENCAUSTIC COMMUNITY
Those of us who paint with encaustic belong to a small but cohesive community (perhaps 1500 professionals) united in our endeavors due in large part to the efforts of artist Joanne Mattera. In 2001 she published the first comprehensive book on encaustic and then in 2006, she founded the Annual Encaustic Conference in Provincetown, which gave all of us an opportunity to meet one another face to face and form deep friendships.

My own well-worn copy of Joanne Mattera's book

In between the annual conference, there are a number of ways we stay in touch virtually, including our own Facebook Page called ProWax, and online publication called ProWax Journal.

Again, thanks for tuning in and I look forward to seeing you soon!