Encaustic

Recently I have been exploring the medium of encaustic.  Not only have I enjoyed learning about a new technique, using different tools and getting messy in the process, I have  loved how the medium has allowed my work to become looser and more abstract.  My source inspiration still comes from the real: still life, landscapes e.t.c. but the fluidity of the wax when pouring refuses to adhere to boundaries and so I have to let go of formalities and work with the medium rather than against it.  If it becomes unruly I move to restrain it to keep with my figurative frame of mind. As the colors of the wax merge into one another new aspects of the textures, forms and visuals occur that I could not have foreseen in my imagination.  Therefor the painting creates itself to some extent. Using oil pastels brings  a new dimension. It allows me to contextualist the work, bringing the life form to the painting.  The colors of the oil pastel add contrast and the markings provide texture. The resin protects and adds shine.