Encaustic, “to heat or burn in,” is an ancient painting technique dating to the Greeks. Natural beeswax and damar resin are heated, filtered, and applied to a firm surface. Each layer is fused to the one below with heat. Pigments can be added to the encaustic medium, or it can be used alone and left transparent. As the surface builds, the painting can be carved and filled and collage elements can be added. Encaustic paintings retain their color because the wax is a natural preservative- a quality demonstrated in the Fayum funeral portraits painted in the 1st through 3rd centuries in Egypt.

The paintings on wood do not need frames. The sides are sanded and finished with a natural furniture wax that makes a protective matte sheen. The wood panels are are 1 ½ inches deep light birch or bass wood and wired to hang. The paintings on paper are best framed. They are presented in a white acid- free mat and firm backing. You can purchase a standard sized frame at any local framing, craft, or home goods store. You can choose any style, but white or natural wood will create a modern look that lets the painting take the stage.

I try to show the true colors and details of my art. If you’re not happy, you have 7 days to tell me and another 7 days to return the art. Photograph it before you return it in the same packaging it arrived. I will refund you, but you need to pay return shipping. If the item is returned not in its original condition, the buyer is responsible for any loss in value which will be deducted from the refund. Commissioned pieces can NOT be refunded, as we create with approval at each step. Work is carefully packed and insured. If you receive a painting that has been damaged in transit, please photograph the damage and contact me within 7 days.

Encaustic is archival, but needs gentle care. Keep out of direct sun, extreme heat, and freezing temps. Don't leave in a hot car. Be careful with the edges when you move it or set it on the ground- the wax can crack. Periodically buff with a lint free cloth or nylon stockings to shine and remove the cloudy bloom that sometimes happens over time.

If you need a larger or smaller painting that has a feel of one you see here (or one that has been sold), I won’t copy it, but I will be happy to create something similar in a commission. If you have important words on paper (letters, lists, memories, or dreams), we can create a painting to preserve them. I work with designers and architects to make site specific pieces.

The easy answer? I live in a 1951 ranch inspired house with three levels (really). I love the weirdness of that. If you want to know more, the dual meanings of the words appeal to me. My urban farm is a little ranch. A ranch sounds like a compound- a place where lots of creative work can happen. And I also love stories- many, many more than three!