What is Encaustic Painting

Flag is an encaustic painting by the American artist Jasper Johns. Created when Johns was 24, two years after he was discharged from the US Army, this painting was the first of many works that Johns has said were inspired by a dream of the U.S. flag in 1954. It is arguably the painting for which Johns is best known.

What is Encaustic Painting?

Encaustic Art Definition and Origins

Encaustic painting, also known as hot wax painting, is an ancient art form that involves using heated beeswax mixed with coloured pigments.

Ethereal encaustic painting depicting figure underwater with swirling orange energy bursts against deep blue background, contemporary spiritual abstract art by Leonie.e.Brown
Ethereal encaustic painting depicting figure underwater with swirling orange energy bursts against deep blue background, contemporary spiritual abstract art by Leonie.e.Brown

What is Encaustic painting?

Encaustic painting, also known as hot wax painting, is an ancient art form that involves using heated beeswax mixed with colored pigments. The molten mixture is applied to a surface—typically prepared wood, though canvas and other materials can be used. This unique painting method creates a luminous, layered effect unlike any other medium.

Encaustic Art Definition and Origins

The term “encaustic” comes from the Greek word enkaustikos, meaning “to heat or burn in.” This heat-based technique dates back over 2,000 years, with some of the earliest examples found in Egyptian Fayum mummy portraits. Modern encaustic artists have revived and expanded upon this versatile medium, pushing its boundaries in contemporary art.

Define Encaustic Painting: Understanding the Process

What is encaustic painting? The process involves layering wax-based paint onto a surface and then fusing the layers with heat. This can be done using a heat gun, blow torch, or other heating tools to ensure adhesion and create smooth, sculptural textures. Unlike traditional oil or acrylic painting, encaustic artwork remains workable even after cooling, allowing for continuous adjustments and refinements.

What is the Encaustic Technique?

The encaustic technique requires precision and skill in handling molten wax. Key aspects of this process include:

  • Pigment Mixing: Artists can use pre-mixed encaustic paints or blend their own by adding pigments to beeswax.

  • Layering and Fusing: Each wax layer is heated to bond with the one below, creating depth and translucency.

  • Texture and Carving: Once cooled, encaustic paint can be scraped, sculpted, or etched for additional effects.

My Journey with Encaustic Artwork

When I first discovered encaustic wax art, I was captivated by its expressive possibilities. With limited resources and no local teachers, I embarked on a self-taught journey. Along the way, I explored Cold Wax, a variation that does not require heat. Collaborating with a local paint manufacturer, we developed our own encaustic and Cold Wax Medium, which expanded my creative expression.Mixing Cold Wax with oils allows for incredible transparency and luminosity, enhancing the visual depth of my work. The tactile interaction with wax creates a dynamic process where the medium itself becomes a living, evolving entity on the canvas.

Caring for Encaustic Art

Encaustic paintings are highly archival, lasting centuries if properly cared for. However, they should be protected from extreme temperatures:

  • Avoid direct sunlight or excessive heat (above 150°F) to prevent melting.

  • Keep paintings away from freezing conditions.

  • If the surface becomes cloudy, simply buff it with a soft cloth to restore its shine.

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