Mary McDonnell

Encaustic Abstraction

2004-2005

We once viewed “nature” as the broad, creative and controlling force in the universe. Tania Dibbs studied both biology and art, and is interested in our changing relationship to to ...

Blasted Through and it's Blue is a two part series of paintings depicting an abstract representation of the feeling of tranquility that is only achieved after digging through some in...

Blasted Through and it's Blue is a two part series of paintings depicting an abstract representation of the feeling of tranquility that is only achieved after digging through some in...

Encaustic is a beeswax-based paint that is applied to a surface while molten and then fused with heat, resulting in a layered, textural effect. The texture of the wax creates interesting patterns and organic shapes within the painting, giving it depth, a tactile quality and adding to its visual appeal. There is no other painting medium that replicate these qualities. The encaustic medium itself creates a luminous and slightly translucent surface that can give the painting a sense of depth and richness. This earthy painting...

Encaustic painting is an ancient art form and was practiced by artists as far back as the 5th century B.C. The word encaustic comes from Greek and means “to burn in”, which refers to...

Encaustic painting is an ancient art form and was practiced by artists as far back as the 5th century B.C. The word encaustic comes from Greek and means “to burn in”, which refers to the process of fusing the paint. The technique uses heated wax to which coloured pigments are added. The molten wax is applied to a firm surface–usually prepared wood, paper, or canvas. Encaustic has a long history, but it is as versatile as any 20th-century medium. Brushes are used to apply and shape the wax before it cools, then it can be polished to a high gloss, it can be modelled, sculpted, textured, and combined with collage materials. The wax cools immediately, so that there is no drying time, yet it can always be reworked. Encaustic paintings do not have to be varnished or protected by glass. "A Thin Wash of Morning Rain...

This is an abstract encaustic painting with pure pigments and a coating of shellac for extra texture. It reminds me of the rocky coast of Norway and slipping by boat between them. A...

Encaustic and oil on canvas on wood

Encaustic and oil on canvas

Encaustic paint on 44 assembled wood pieces