Ever wanted to try painting with wax? Here's your chance to study with Linda Womack, author of Embracing Encaustic: Learning to Paint with Beeswax.

No painting or drawing experience is necessary for this two day beginning encaustic class that covers both painting and collage with wax.

Encaustic is one of the oldest forms of painting, with paint made from pure pigment mixed with wax and resin. The mixture is applied hot, then reheated to fuse the layers together. We'll start fusing using a heat gun, but the use of an iron and a small torch will also be covered. You'll be amazed at how simple it is to collage with wax instead of glue to incorporate papers, fabric and dried plants. The molten nature of the medium also lends itself to texturing and carving the wax.

I'll demonstrate step-by-step techniques involving painting, collage, using several different brands of premium paints in an assortment of vivid colors. I'll guide you through applying the wax without air bubbles to get a smooth finish but also how to add texture where you want it with a variety of tools. Don't worry if you aren't a painter. I'll have lots of collage materials available for you to play with, and you can work in any style you choose. This workshop will offer you an expanded visual language plus information on supply sources and safe studio set-up methods for further experimentation.

All supplies will be provided, but feel free to bring some of your favorite images or natural materials for your own personal touch. Topics will include: a brief history, layering, incising, textured finishes, adding papers and fibers, using natural materials, working the surface with pastels, safety issues and home set up. Students will leave class with 4 - 5 finished projects.

Confirmation, directions to my studio and additional information will be emailed to each student upon registration. Space is limited to 4 students so classes fill quickly. All supplies will be provided except your personal imagery. See more information and photos of previous classes on my web site.