Encaustic

Encaustic is the word used to describe a wax-based painting medium that has a rich history going back to the Egyptians. It usually consists of beeswax melted with pigment and enough damar varnish to raise the melting temperature to [continued] a minimum of 180 Fahrenheit. The resulting solution (when melted) is used to paint on any durable surface such as wood panels. It can be combined with many other materials, making it a natural for executing mixed media works. After it has been applied and left to solidify it can be scrapped, gouged or sculpted and painted over. It offers many opportunities for the creative artist.