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
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?
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’ve never been one to live on the edge. But this week has been full of edges. I’m just back from an amazing ten days in Oregon (opening the 2016 National Photo Encaustic Exhibition and teaching two back-to-back workshops). Before I left I was fixated on the Oregon coast. Couldn’t wait to get out there.… Read More »Exploring the Edge
I’ve known photographer Doug Beasley for years. I’ve taken his workshops, stayed at his cabin, walked countless laps around Como Lake with him, and shared many meals and conversations about creativity, art, and life. He is not only an extraordinary photographer and educator, but also one of the most thoughtful souls I know. This particular… Read More »The Power of Creative Vulnerability
Meet Deborah Williams. One day when Deborah and I were emailing back and forth she nonchalantly mentioned that she grinded her own pigments. My reaction…..wait, you do what? She had my attention, and fascination. Since this is so far out of my realm, I asked her to talk about her process. +++++ I love the… Read More »DIY Pigments for Photo Encaustic Artists