In this introductory workshop, participants will dive into the fascinating world of encaustic painting, an ancient medium that combines beeswax, resin, and pigment. Through hands-on instruction and exploration, attendees will learn the history, safety precautions, and fundamental techniques of encaustic painting. History of Encaustic Painting: Delve into the origins and evolution of encaustic painting, tracing its roots back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Greece. Explore the revival of encaustic painting in contemporary art and its enduring appeal across different artistic movements. Safety and Setup: Understand the essential safety measures required when working with encaustic materials, including ventilation, temperature control, and handling hot tools. Learn how to set up a safe and functional workspace, including proper ventilation, heat sources, and equipment organization. Applying Paint: Master the techniques for melting and applying encaustic paint onto wood panels. Experiment with different application methods, including brushwork, pouring, and layering, to achieve desired textures and effects. Carving and Scraping: Explore the unique possibilities of carving and scraping into layers of cooled wax to reveal underlying colours, textures, and create intricate patterns. Learn how to use various tools, including ceramic and dental tools, to manipulate the wax surface. Using Stencils: Discover how stencils can be incorporated into encaustic painting to add depth, dimension, and intricate designs to artworks. Experiment with different types of stencils and techniques for incorporating them into encaustic compositions. Creating Texture: Explore the diverse range of techniques for creating texture in encaustic paintings, including embedding materials, building up layers, and using texture mediums. Learn how to manipulate the wax surface to create a variety of textures, from smooth and glossy to rough and textured. Details: Duration: 3 Evening Classes from 7:00-9:00pm Dates and Time: Tuesday May 14, 21, and 28, 2024 Materials: All necessary encaustic materials provided, including wax, pigments, brushes, and surfaces. By the end of this workshop, participants will have gained a solid foundation in encaustic painting techniques and be equipped with the knowledge and skills to continue exploring this versatile and expressive medium on their own.