What is Photo Encaustics?

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My encaustic photography is a unique alternative photographic process that begins with one of my fine art photographs printed on museum-quality cotton rag paper using archival pigment inks, then mounted onto a cradled wood panel. This ancient technique involves building up multiple layers of natural beeswax and damar resin (a natural tree sap that acts as a hardening agent) on the photograph, resulting in a textured and luminous surface that brings depth and richness to the image. Combining these materials enhances the visual appeal and protects the photograph, making each piece a distinctive work of art that is beautiful and enduring.

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History of Encaustic

Encaustic is derived from a Greek word (enkaustikos) meaning “to heat or burn in.” Heat is used throughout the process, from melting the beeswax to fusing layers of wax. Encaustic art has existed for centuries and is one of the oldest painting techniques still in use today. It dates back to the 1st Century AD in ancient Egypt when it was used to create detailed portraits on wooden panels. 

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The encaustic technique saw a resurgence in the 20th century, particularly when artists began experimenting with it again in the 1940s and '50s. Artists like Jasper Johns, famous for his American post-war art, brought encaustic back into the spotlight. The medium allows for incredible texture and depth, and it’s versatile, as artists can fuse it with other materials, such as photographs on paper. So, despite its ancient roots, encaustic is still a vibrant part of the art world today!