What to expect from your workshop with Betsy
Beginners are welcome in this introductory class where we learn hands on about creating with the fascinating medium of encaustic beeswax. Using pigmented wax and collage techniques we will spend two days together in the studio exploring the beautiful layering capabilities of this 2,000 year old medium that still captures the hearts and minds of artists today. Day one we will learn the basics of encaustics from prepping panels to fusing, compatible materials, etc. then spend the afternoon creating custom papers for our encaustic collages using dyes, wax resist, creating cyanotype prints and more. Day two we will put it all together and use our custom-made papers to create beautiful layered encaustic collages.
Open to all levels - beginners are welcome.
Number of Students: 12 Students maximum, 6 students minimum
Students to bring sack lunch, snacks & canvas apron or heavy smock, sketchbook and pen
Learning Outcomes & Activities:
Demo & Presentation on the material
Panel prep
Brush care
Material choices
Composition
Applying wax – Temperatures and Brush technique
Fusing with heat guns & torches
Proper layering techniques for collage
Burnishing
Surface techniques: Carving, Dusting, Drawing with wax stylus
Wax resist papers
Cyanotype prints
Monoprinting on griddle
Distressed paper
Packaging work
Betsy Schairer is a Pacific Northwest artist and craftsperson based in Poulsbo, Washington. She studied Fiber Arts and Art Education at Western Washington University. Her work focuses on personal narrative using illustrative layered mixed media processes that often incorporate vintage textiles and ephemera. Her work is candid, expressive, and instinctive using vibrant colors and bold patterning.
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