Karen Brown Encaustics
Encaustic Mixed Media Artist

I am an encaustic mixed media artist whose work is motivated by my relationship with nature.
Encaustics is an ancient beeswax based paint which is applied and heated to create rich layers of unique depth and luminosity.  My process is studio intensive but starts outdoors with experience, photography and drawing providing the visual and emotive references that come back into the studio to be created. Substrates are recycled, repurposed found materials which create earth-friendly, karma-friendly, soul-friendly pieces of artwork. 
I am thrilled to be offering encaustic workshops and original art at the Hive encaustic studio– 
Studio 201 at the Alton Mill Arts Centre.

CV and Events- Karen Brown
About Encaustics
Encaustic is a beeswax based paint that usually consists of beeswax, damar resin and/or other additives that are highly individual to each artist’s methods.
It is kept molten on a heated palette, applied to a surface and reheated to fuse the paint into a durable, archival surface.
Encaustic medium can be used as is or combined with pigment such as oil paint or powdered pigments.  As each layer of encaustic medium is brushed or poured on and is fused with the previous layer using a heat source such as heat gun or torch. 
Care for your encaustic art just as you would any piece of fine art and it will last for centuries.


Here are some things to know about encaustic paintings:

  • Encaustic paintings do not have to be varnished or protected by glass.  However as with any fine art, you should keep your paintings away from extreme heat and cold so do not hang in direct sunlight or above or near a fireplace or other heating source.

  • Always protect the surface and edges of the encaustic painting when moving it.  Although the surface is completely dry, encaustic paintings can be scratched,  gouged, or chipped if handled roughly. 

  • Encaustic paintings are extremely durable due to the fact that beeswax is impervious to moisture. Because of this it will not deteriorate, it will not yellow, and it will not darken.

  • Examples of encaustic paintings have survived from the Greek and Roman empires and are still as vibrant and colorful today as they were when they were painted. 

  • Be aware that for some time the surface of the painting will develop a natural whitish dust known as "Bloom".  Wipe with a soft, lint-free damp rag to dust and polish. Then buff with any soft, dry, lint-free cloth to bring out the luminosity of the painting.