Wax art is very adaptable. The drawing below is based on Chinese watercolor landscapes from the Sung dynasty.
  • Complex landscapes are built up in layers, starting at the top of the page and working across the paper and down, one strip at a time. This requires you to plan your picture in advance.
  • Other features can be added. Part of a Chinese book were written down the left hand side with a pen before any work was done.
  • The palette should be chosen to meet the style you intend to use and should be limited. A limited palette helps to hold the picture togethor when you are finished.
  • In this case the greens and browns were mixed with whites and clear wax to create pale and translucent colors to recall the feel of Sung watercolors.
  • Once the layers were in place, tissue was used to wipe away the wax, producing the waterfall and lake at the bottom. The edge of the iron could then be used to produce the details.


    Encaustic Main Page On the Net

    Contact Elspeth Bracey: elspeth@eggsasperated.freeserve.co.uk