Encaustic Flow: Water Media and Wax with Bridget Benton

Water and wax may not mix, but watercolor and encaustic can! In this class, we’ll explore combining various water-soluble media like watercolor, gouache, graphite, and pencils, and crayons with encaustic wax. Traditional watercolor artists will enjoy seeing how encaustic can be used to seal their paintings, as well as add additional mood and depth. Experimental mixed media artists will love creating layered paintings and seeing how media like water soluble crayons can be used between layers of encaustic paint.

The first day, we will explore painting with various water-soluble media on watercolor paper, Ampersand Encausticbord, and even watercolor paper mounted to panel. Students can also experiment with non-traditional water media like Inktense and water soluble graphite.

In the afternoon, we’ll dive into encaustic, covering safety and basic application methods. Students will learn how to use wax as a resist for watercolor. We’ll also use water media and ink to create collage elements to layer into our paintings.

The next day, when their paintings are completely dry, students will have the opportunity to apply encaustic medium to seal and enhance their watercolor paintings. Finally, students will be able to build up layers of encaustic and collage elements and use a variety of mixed media techniques – including oil and pan pastel – to build additional color, texture, and visual elements, as well as adding depth to their work.

Students will leave with multiple completed small works, and as well as a better understanding of both watercolor and encaustic!