Can I just blow off a little steam? I’m really tired of hearing the downright bad information out there in regard to encaustics and photo encaustics in particular. Normally I get really excited when students tell me what a wonderful teacher I am, but this one got me going. “I just attended a weekend workshop… Read More »Learn how to ‘think’ about photo encaustics
Come Join me in Wyoming. My signature workshop–photographing horses, Eaton’s Ranch and the lifestyle of the American West is such a special experience. So if you’re wondering where to go next with your images. Or it’s been a long time since you’ve ‘played’ and felt totally free in your art. Maybe you want to Or… Read More »An Interview with Elizabeth Patrenos
Where does inspiration come from? If the answer were simple, none of us would struggle with creative blocks. I’m no stranger to the moments when everything feels stagnant and nothing new wants to emerge. And then—out of absolutely nowhere—something sparks. That’s exactly what happened this year in Wyoming while teaching at Eaton’s Ranch, where I’ve… Read More »Finding Inspiration in Unexpected Places
9 Elements for Strong Photo Encaustic Images. Every image—whether a photograph, a painting, or a photo encaustic piece—carries certain artistic elements. They won’t always all be present, and they don’t need to be. These aren’t rigid rules. Sometimes an image is powerful precisely because it breaks convention and gives the viewer something unexpected. But understanding… Read More »Elements for Strong Photo Encaustic Images
Have I told you before that I love my job? Every 6 weeks or so I meet my friend and fellow photographer Debra for lunch. These are not quick 45-minute grab a bite and go. We chat about all aspects of our creative worlds. It’s nothing for us to have a 3-hour lunch. But last… Read More »Do you see a Higher Purpose to your work?
I miss the morning routine most of all. If there’s one thing I miss most about being at Eatons’ Ranch, it’s the morning routine. The first thing you should know about me is that I’m not naturally a morning person. I’ve always been more of a middle-of-the-day—or even late-night—creator. Most of the sunrises I’ve seen… Read More »It’s Time for Another Adventure
Have you ever stopped and asked yourself why you photograph what you photograph? It sounds simple, but it’s one of the most defining questions an artist can explore. What are you trying to say? What are you curious about? What are you hoping your images reveal or ask? We live in a world where more… Read More »Finding Purpose in Your Photography Practice
Meet Frank. My brother owns this photograph and keeps it at his cabin in Northern Wisconsin. During a visit this past summer, I turned a corner and saw it hanging in a new spot—and instantly, I was transported back to Ireland and the days when I first fell in love with photography. I spent years… Read More »Meet Frank: An Irish Story Through My Lens
It’s done…..now what? It’s such a great feeling when a piece is finally finished—until you suddenly realize the work isn’t actually done. There’s a whole process that comes after the art-making, and it’s just as important for honoring your work and preparing it for the world. The first thing I do is clean the edges.… Read More »Your Art Is Done—Now What?
I love my job. I’ve just returned from a week teaching my photo encaustic equine workshop outside of Sheridan Wyoming. Nine of us gathered in this amazing location at the foot of the Big Horn Mountains and spent the week photographing horses and working in the studio. It’s the first time I’ve done a workshop… Read More »Doing What I Love