Jim Inzero - Artist

"Sail Up"
Encaustic, maps on wood panel
17.34 in x 24 in

What is Encaustic?

What was once old is now new again. Encaustic has its roots in 5th century B.C. and was originally practiced by Greek artists to paint portraits and decorate marble and terra cotta architectural elements. Made popular in modern times by Jasper Johns, encaustic is a significant medium with staying power.

Artists are drawn to encaustic because of its versatility and spontaneity. It is composed of molten beeswax and resin which are fused to a surface to create a lustrous enamel effect. Encaustic paint cools immediately, requiring no drying time, but can be reheated, reshaped and reworked at anytime. The optical effects of encaustic layering are unlike any other art form.

Collectors are drawn to the art form’s optical effects and incredible durability. Since beeswax is impervious to moisture, an encaustic painting will not deteriorate yellow or darken with age. Encaustic paintings do not have to be varnished or protected by glass. And eager viewers, drawn to physically touch the paintings to further comprehend the depth of its multiple layers, can do so without damaging them.

Jim Inzero - Artist

Thursday, September 10, 2009

The Nature of Encaustic Painting

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Artist Statement

What is Encaustic?

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