About Encaustic Photographs
Encaustic photographs are a uniquely special kind of art.
The fine art photographic print is adhered to a birch cradled panel board. Then thin layers of wax, or encaustic medium, are applied. The encaustic medium is a combination of beeswax and damar resin. The encaustic layer is durable and archival. The layers add visual interest, evoking memory and a sense of nostalgia.
THE PROCESS
“The application of wax somehow reveals certain soulful details otherwise concealed. ”
Step 1
Images are processed in Lightroom and Photoshop. From these files photographs are printed onto archival matte paper. Prints are left to dry for 12-24 hours.
Step 2
The Photographs are mounted onto stained, cradled birch panels. They are left to dry for 24 hours.
Step 3
The sides and bottom of the panels are wrapped to keep them free of wax.
Step 4
Thin layers of melted wax medium are applied to the surface with a hake paint brush.
The wax medium is a combination of beeswax and damar resin.
Step 5
The wax layers are often carved into, or scraped back, to reveal details and create texture as well as meaning. As seen here, pigments can be added to the wax.
The Finished Piece
Encaustic Photographs are archival and durable. The image, encased in wax, will not fade. Most of these handcrafted photo blocks can sit nicely on a shelf and all can be hung.
Authenticity
Every one of my artworks comes with a certificate of authenticity, signed and stamp by me. Each piece has a label adhered to the back stating the name of the piece, or any custom text for special Memento orders.
“My encaustic wax painting hangs proudly in my creative space and I love it! Crystal and I had a photoshoot of a costume I created, and then she created this amazing and unique piece of art for me. The entire experience was fun, imaginative and easygoing.”