Yes, I am still "doing art".
Yes, I have actually been very busy. (Thanks for asking.)
Other things have just taken priority... updating the blog wasn't on the list.
But... I will earnestly try to do better. To keep this from taking too long to post and my internal-perfectionist-editor from squashing the whole thing, I will leave you with a Q&A I recently answered. It is for a local arts magazine to be published at a later date. They are asking questions about my art, so I thought it relevant to post and kickoff my blog-renewal. Enjoy!
Smiles and Blessings to you all!
- Shannon
What is your attraction to working with wax as a medium? What does it enable you to do that other media does not?
Encaustics are so sensual, earthy, and luminous. Working with wax seems to have something for all of the senses. (I love how the smell of melted wax makes the studio smell like a honeycomb...) Artists have been using wax as a natural medium as early as the 5th century BC, so there's a definite sense of connecting with the past and with nature. It's easy to be enthralled and allow yourself to get lost in it all. And as the encaustic layers are applied, the art seems to glow and become alive...you just can't get that anywhere else.
Describe your mental process when planning a piece or series, then describe some of the physical aspects of working in encaustic.
Encaustic art is very much a process of recipes, steps, and layering. Each layer needs to be fused to the previous layer and so on. When I have an idea for a piece, I'll break it down into layers in my head and work backwards. I try to "troubleshoot" and "problem-solve" prior to even prepping the board. I like to have everything ready to go when I start. Every piece is different and things change. At some point, I just let the art come into its own. That's what keeps it interesting and new every time.
What tips do you have to offer to artists who would like to begin working in wax?
Research the steps and learn how different materials work together. Experiment, be creative, and have fun with it. But most important is knowing the rules for safety. Encaustics and wax can become very toxic at certain temperatures and very harmful if inhaled. Plus, anytime you are working with high heat or open flames it can be dangerous. Safety is a must.
Where do you draw your inspiration?
I am inspired by life. Little things that catch my attention. Children inspire me, especially my own. I like having them tell me what they see in any work of art, what they find interesting, and what they think. It's often the most honest and pure response you'll hear.
Where can the public view your work?
I currently have works on display at the Peoria Riverfront Museum and Mackenzie River Pottery.
What projects do you currently have in the works?
I am working on a series that explores concepts of "Contrast, Chaos, and Control". Plus, a few other interesting ideas..
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