What is Encaustic Art?

Encaustic art is the process of mixing pigments with melted beeswax and resin to create an art medium. The wax is typically applied to wood canvas using various techniques and tools.  This is an ancient art medium has been traced back to the 5th century. Thought to be introduced by the Greeks, as the word encaustics, is from the Greek word enkaustikos meaning "to burn in or fuse".  Cold wax paintings use a medium of beeswax, resin and solvent, then oil or dry pigment is mixed in. Cold wax straddles the line between traditional oil painting and encaustic work.