Mixed Media Artist

I work primarily in acrylics and collage.I use collage and beewax in my assemblage works and am now completing several shrines using found objects. I have been experimenting with encaustic collage and have found the medium very challenging. The paint is a combination of melted beeswax and pigment. A small amount of damar resin is added for hardness. I mix these paints myself and while painting all custom colors are mixed directly on a hot palette.
I will share my progress with this exciting medium with photos of work in progress and finished pieces.

Monday, May 30, 2011

Photographer, Cara Barer



Look at these amazing book sculptures by photographer, Cara Barer. Unfortunately the photos are not very clear and these deserve a closer look. Please go to her website  http://www.carabarer.com/ Select the last category, Sculpture, to see how lovely these are on her site.
After reading her story I learned her inspiration came from a public phone book. These book pages are stiffened and shaped with melted beeswax, so again, another unique way to use encaustic. Without speaking to her I don't know her process, but I can see the use of beeswax in many of her sculptures.  I was so impressed with the soft forms and flowing nature of these book pages.

Friday, May 27, 2011

Monoprinting with Wax

Roadswork
 Encaustic Monotypes, Laminated Photographic Transparencies, Hardware, on Cradled Panels • 16 pieces each 8”x8”x1.5




Sherrie Posternak has combined many interesting processes to create this quilt-like work. The background for these small tiles is a collection of encaustic monoprints. Colored wax pigments are applied directly to the heated palette and paper is gently placed on top of this. When the paper is lifted the result is a single print known as a monoprint. She has added to the surface with photo transparencies.



In-Line for the B Line
 Encaustic, Printed Silk, Phototransfer, Pigment Stick on Cradled Panel • 10.5"x13.5"x2"





The insects are image transfers. They can be applied directly to the wax surface or printed on fabric and collaged on. I love all the subtle detail in this piece and the muted quality of the background compared with the boldness of the insects. This work is also by Sherrie Posternak. To view her website use this link:






Monday, May 2, 2011

A Unique Approach to Encaustic Painting

Laura Moriarty

 These examples of artist Laura Moriarty's work show her approach to painting with beeswax.





This example of Laura's work is an encaustic monoprint on paper. The blending of the deep colors and softness of her edges is quite a contrast to her heavily carved pieces below.




Detail of Painting Below






Accretionary Wedge
 In the painting above she paints many layers and then carves back into the wax creating a multi-dimensional surface.