A New Twist on an Old Craft: Encaustic Art

by Kara Hardman

Are your kids getting bored with the same old coloring books? It's time to liven up the old arts and crafts scene with the exciting technique of "painting" pictures with melted wax: Encaustic Art. Kids today live in a sophisticated visual medium, and it's getting harder to keep them entertained and their creative juices flowing with just a plain old box of crayons. If you've relegated that pile of broken and dull colors to the back of the arts and crafts bin, here's a fun new (yet really, really old) way to bring out the artist in your kids that's also fun for you. I spoke with Helen Hajjar, a dynamic grandma recognized with numerous honors for her innovative work, who teaches classes and is spreading the word (and the fun!) of encaustic art.

What's the best part of this technique? "The colors are so brilliant!" Helen says. "The melted wax is three dimensional, and the result is so exciting to look at!" Helen tells us that this art form is surprisingly easy to create. No previous art experience is needed. She's taught this technique to all ages, from elementary school to octogenarians, and she's been known to create an entire painting in just minutes. Ready to give it a shot yourself?

To get started on your own 3D paintings, the basics you will need are a small travel iron, some peeled crayons, and a way to apply the wax, such as a stylus or brush. Helen suggests using photographic paper for learning, and then experimenting with larger pieces of foam core, glass, wood, or other mediums as you grow more skilled. Once you've gotten the hang of applying the wax, you can create everything from landscapes to fun-textured Christmas cards. Kids will have fun coming up with creative methods for their projects. For example, you might try using rubber stamps to imprint the wax, or attaching photographs.

Encaustic Art gives you get lasting results. The pieces are durable, able to withstand higher temperatures than an oil painting, and the wax is unaffected by water or moisture. The art form actually dates back to Ancient Greece and Egypt (its name is from the Greek word for "burn in", enkaustikos), where beeswax and charcoal fires were used to decorate churches and the caskets of mummies; There are complete portraits still visible today. To help preserve your own finished pieces, Helen recommends spraying your final piece with hairspray to help the preservation. So help your kids try their hands at a new way to express themselves. You'll create memories and paintings that will literally last a lifetime.

To some of Helen Hajjar's work, visit: www.witva.org/hajjar.com or email her at hhajjar@aedlphia.net. For encaustic art supplies, visit your local art supply store or go to www.encaustic.com for tips and resources.