Encaustics - Photography - Painting
My encaustic portraiture is done using a technique derived from the ancient mediterranean funeral paintings, especially the Greek Fayum mummy portraits. I use a four-color palette of classic tints and a warm beeswax medium. In much of my other encaustic work, I discover each encaustic painting as I work. Using a hot wax and fusing process allows movement of the wax and coloring agents which evokes the painting’s own personality. I may have an idea of what I want to do, but can never entirely envision the result until I come upon it, which makes the process exciting and very fulfilling.
My photography is almost always done ‘in place’. I try to photograph things as I find them and without adding artificial lighting. It’s the small, quiet things that speak to my soul and I try to show their effect on me in my photographs. I use basic photofinishing software to ensure the picture shows the feeling I intended.
Abstract paintings allow me to explore form, color, and emotion without self-imposed constraints of figural or realistic painting, yet allowing refinement to be placed for effect. Sometimes I work in acrylics or oils. Occasionally a realistic painting is just the challenge my perfectionist side is looking for. I am currently working on a series of portraits in wax encaustic that seriously challenge me artistically.
My work is not limited by subject or formality of style. I am constantly inspired by new ideas and love to try new things.
