Encaustic Painting

Encaustic Painting

Definition

Encaustic painting is an artistic technique in which pigments are mixed with hot wax (often beeswax) and applied to a surface such as wood, canvas, or panel. Artists may incorporate other mediums or textures to enhance the visual and tactile qualities of the work.

Uses and Applications

• Creating richly textured and layered artworks.
• Combining with collage, mixed media, or other painting techniques.
• Producing works with a luminous, translucent quality due to the wax medium.
• Preserving the pigment and surface for long-lasting artwork with archival properties.

Best Practices

• Work in a well-ventilated area, as heating wax can release fumes.
• Use proper heating tools to maintain safe and consistent wax temperatures.
• Seal finished encaustic paintings to protect from dust and environmental damage.
• Layer pigments gradually to build depth and prevent cracking.

Related Terms

• Encaustic Wax
• Collage
• Mixed Media
• Cold Wax