Techniques for Large Scale Photo Encaustics

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Have you ever been told to ‘go big or go home’?

In the early days of my photo encaustic obsession, most of the pieces I created were on the small side.

But my confidence grew, along with the size if my artworks, as I came to understand, and then master, the techniques of encaustics.

I’m naturally drawn to BIG artwork. I love creating large panels and find that smaller panels tend to trip me up and somehow short-circuit my creative process.

When I’m working on a large substrate I love the flow of the broad and wide sweeping brushstrokes and the freedom of movement it brings.

Larger works involve a wonderful physical and energetic component that allows me to work with both arms, and my full body. It’s this ease of movement that connects me differently to my work.

The bigger I go, the more expressive and confident I feel!

Don’t get me wrong – there is absolutely nothing wrong with creating small and medium sized pieces. But changing scale can really challenge you in ways you never imagined and expand and broaden your creative vision.

Working with larger panels has totally transformed my art.

If you haven’t yet worked on a larger scale you might be wondering, how big is big? Well that is entirely up to you. But I recommend a size that is considerably bigger than what you would normally use.

It’s about changing scale just enough to push yourself out of your creative comfort zone.

When you change scale your style may also transition. When you create large work you ‘expand’ and make larger movements. You have to shift your position, and this causes you to execute the elements differently, as you adapt to the larger scale.

You have to keep your vision wide when working with larger pieces so the entire surface remains in view. Sometimes, my entire composition shifts, as I take steps out, and then back in, so as to see the entire piece properly.

Larger works create more impact, and extra-large artwork can completely transform a living space by:

• Introducing a unique perspective
• Adding unexpected elegance
• Creating visual depth
• Incorporating texture
• Creating a focal point
• Adding layers of color
• Heightening interest and attention
• Generating emotion in a living space
• Creating balance between architectural features and furnishings

And it’s for these reasons that interior designers seek out larger pieces. So don’t be afraid to create large artwork – especially if you’re looking to sell it!

Working large isn’t without its challenges, especially when working with photographs and encaustic.

You have to know how to do things like:

• Brace your substrate so the panels don’t warp
• Create smooth and consistent surfaces
• Mount a large-format image or tile several images together

Over the years, through much trial and error, I’ve honed my skills and got these techniques down to a fine art. None of these techniques are particularly hard, but things can get a little tricky at times.

If you’re up for the challenge of creating your very own large photo encaustic piece then I’ve got something that will help you on your way.

I’ve created a 23 minute training video that will step you through all of the techniques you need to create your very own (extra-large) masterpiece.

 

Click the link below to purchase your copy now >>

Working Large with Photographs and Encaustics

 

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Would love to hear any fears you may have about creating large scale photo encaustic work.

Be well….be creative,