How to Care for Your Encaustic Painting

jane-spooner-artist-encaustic-care
The surface of an encaustic painting is like no other because it's made from beeswax, dammar resin (crystallised tree sap) and pigment. The three components come together on a heated palette to create this amazing finish that fuses seamlessly into one uniform enamel-like layer!

Encaustic paintings are among the most enduring and longest-lasting, but like any fine art piece, they require some level of care. The wax and resin mixture will not melt at temperatures below 150 degrees Fahrenheit; so don't worry about the work melting in normal household conditions. However, do take care to avoid exposing paintings to excessive heat or direct sunlight as too much heat can damage the painting. They are also sensitive to freezing cold temperatures.

Handle your encaustic paintings with care to avoid scratching, gouging, or chipping the surface. Even though the surface is dry, encaustic paintings are delicate and require special handling. If you do damage your painting, don't worry! Encaustic is very repairable and can usually be easily fixed.

An encaustic painting installation is the same process as any other type of art installation. There's no need to put glass over it, as that can cause sticking. If you want to frame your artwork, go for a floating frame.

Encaustic paintings are known to last for centuries, as the beeswax used is resistant to moisture. Consequently, encaustic paintings will not lose their colour or quality over time. In fact, many examples of encaustic paintings from ancient Greece and Rome have survived till today and still retain their original vibrancy.

 

Encaustic paint doesn't fully harden until after the piece is completed; during this time, it may lose some of its original shine. If you want to restore the finish, simply buff the surface gently with a soft lint-free cotton cloth.

 

If you have any questions or need your painting repaired in any way please feel free to contact me.