Encaustic workshops and classes

$155

In this 5 hour encaustic class you will learn the basic set up of an encaustic station and how to safely work with the waxes and equipment,  how to build layers through a variety of fusing techniques, how to create texture through gouging, mark making, incising, and imprinting techniques, how to embed materials between the layers, basic photo transfers, and the use of the hot stylus tool. We will then go deeper and explore adding even more colour and imagery with pan pastels, stencils, and india ink.
All supplies and equipment included.  This workshop is perfect for beginners and advanced artists alike who are looking to explore the beautiful and spontaneous process of painting with beeswax, or anyone looking to expand their creative practice.  You will make several practice pieces and 1 6x6 wooden panel

Absolutely no artistic experience required

All supplies included 

$155

When we first begin to explore the art of encaustic painting, the wax flows in beautiful and often unpredictable ways.  This 5 hour class will look at the subtle ways in which the wax moves and the relationship between heat and outcome.  We will build on the techniques learned in Introduction to Encaustics and introduce new ways to create imagery, texture, and effect; such as filling lines with wax and oil, oil sticks, masking off areas, and a variety of stylus tips.  We will also get creative with eco-friendly stenciling and gold leaf.  We will spend some time mastering the encaustic iron, and take a few risks along the way. 

Introduction to Encaustics required.

Panels not included (max size of 16x20)

$120

When we enter into a state of 'flow', we enter a state of simultaneous deep relaxation and heightened focus and awareness.  Time becomes inconsequential and our mind makes creative connections as our sense of self-doubt evaporates.  Creating art is a wonderful way to enter into this meditative state of 'flow'.

We will begin each class with exercises designed to help us tap into our creative spirit, followed by several hours of encaustic painting in a shared, supportive and creative environment.

While the focus of this class is on process rather than technique, it is a wonderful opportunity to tap into the wealth of group experience as we help one another further develop the skills we have learned in past workshops and in our own artistic practices.  This class is designed to help us each elevate our own work while at the same time building networks and strengthening community.  

Previous encaustic experience required.

Panels not included (max size of 16x20)

"Only when he no longer knows what he is doing does the painter do good things".  Edgar Degas 

$265

Over the course of 2 days we will cover safety and general information about encaustic painting, how to set up a home studio and source supplies.  You will learn how to mix an encaustic palette, how to layer and fuse the wax, and how to embed objects between layers.  We will make marks and create texture through a number of techniques such as incising, imprinting, and scraping back layers.  We will cover basic photo transfers, the hot stylus tool, including the brush tip, pan pastels and india ink.  We will explore a variety of stencilling techniques such as using stencils with pan pastels, stencilling with wax, and how to get creative with eco-friendly stencilling.  Oil sticks and using oil paint, including how to fill lines will also be covered.  

No experience required. 

Panels not included (max size of 16x20)

You will work on several panels over the course of this class.

$535

Over the course of 4 days we will cover safety and general information about encaustic painting, hot to set up a home studio and source supplies.  You will learn how to mix an encaustic palette, how to layer and fuse the wax, and how to embed objects between layers.  We will make marks and create texture through a number of techniques such as incising, imprinting, and scraping back layers.  We will cover basic photo transfers, the hot stylus tool, pan pastels and india ink.  We will explore a variety of stencilling techniques such as using stencils with pan pastels, stencilling with wax, and how to get creative with eco-friendly stencilling.  Oil sticks, oil paint, and gold leaf will be introduced to highlight the effects of the wax.  Glazing, filling lines with oil and wax, and dry brushing techniques will also be covered.  We will also spend some time exploring how to mask off areas and how to master the iron.  

The 4 days will allow time for group instruction, individual guidance, and exercises designed to help us explore our unique creative processes, along with ample time on the griddles.  

No experience required.

Panels not included (max size of 16x20)

You  will  work on several panels over  the course of this class.

Come and try your hand at encaustic painting! Instruction followed by 30 minutes of play.  You will then have a chance to finish up your piece and polish it to a high shine.  No experience necessary.  Ages 5 and up. Children under 12 must be accompanied by a parent.  

By chance or appointment (appointment recommended)

This service will resume soon.  

$25

Open Studio's are the perfect way to continue exploring the beauty and spontaneity  of painting in encaustic or cold wax.  Open Studio's are self-guided with no instruction and are open to those with previous encaustic/cold wax experience.  Supplies and equipment included*  Bring your own substrates (maximum size of 16x20). 

By Chance or appointment (appointment recommended)

$20 per hour

*some exceptions apply

I love teaching at breweries, galleries, studio's, and community spaces! 

 I also offer non-profit partnerships, personalized sessions,  and accessible classes for diverse learners.

This service is currently unavailable due to Covid 19 but I am excited to be planning new and exciting workshops.  Stay tuned!

Give the gift of creativity in a beautiful and historic setting.  Gift certificates can be customized and used towards original art, encaustic workshops, private sessions, or encaustic supplies at The Hive Encaustic Studio located in the national award winning Alton Mill Arts Centre.  

The Alton Mill is a vibrant arts centre featuring working artist studio's, galleries, boutiques, and a heritage museum.

Non-profit and charitable organizations will get a discounted workshop rate of 50% per person.  Workshops can be run at The Hive or at an alternate space (location dependant).

Encaustic workshops make a unique team building experience.   This is not currently available due to social distancing measures.