Added Jun 4, 2021
Encaustic art, a technique using hot beeswax and pigments, goes back Millenia. In fact, examples of encaustic work can be traced back to the pyramids of Ancient Egypt.
Encaustic derives from the Greek word "enkaustikos", meaning "to burn in". The technique uses a combination of hot bees was, resins and pigments to create a paint medium that can be applied to a variety of grounds such as card, canvas, wood or even metals. A heat source fuses the wax, pigments and resins and binds the different layers of the work together.
Encaustic is a relatively unknown art medium. In addition, there is an unfounded perception that encaustic art is not as durable or aesthetic as, for example, oils, acrylics or watercolours. However, works produced by the young contemporary South African artist, Lydia Ehlers, speak volumes to change market perceptions about encaustic art. Arum Creative Studios is honoured to present works by Ms. Ehlers to the world.
Works by Ms. Ehlers show great versatility that can be achieved with encaustic mediums. Works range from fantasy landscapes to strong emotional pieces such as the works that were commissioned by a museum to commemorate the Anglo Boer War of 1899 to 1902.
Arum Creative Studios believe that Ms. Ehlers’ encaustics set a tone of excellence that is sure to continue on a rapidly upward-moving curve.