Painting Poppies: An Introduction to Encaustic

Discover the Art of Painting with Wax

Explore the rich textures, luminous color, and creative possibilities of encaustic painting in this hands-on workshop with artist Kristen Roers.

Encaustic is an ancient painting technique that involves applying heated wax medium and pigment to a prepared surface. Its history reaches back thousands of years, with Pliny the Elder documenting its use by Greek artists as early as the 5th century B.C. Today, artists continue to embrace encaustic for its distinctive surfaces and exciting possibilities for layering, carving, color, and mark-making.

In this beginner-friendly workshop, Kristen will introduce you to the materials, tools, and basic techniques of encaustic painting as you create your own 6" x 6" semi-abstract poppy field.

No previous encaustic or painting experience is necessary. Class size is limited to just six adults, allowing plenty of opportunity for individual instruction and hands-on exploration.

What You’ll Learn

Over the course of this four-day workshop, you’ll become familiar with encaustic medium and pigments while exploring a variety of tools and techniques that you can continue using in your own work.

You’ll leave the workshop with:

  • Your own finished 6” x 6” encaustic poppy painting

  • An introduction to essential encaustic tools and techniques

  • A recipe for making encaustic medium at home

  • Written instructions

  • A materials list for continuing to work in encaustic

All art materials and equipment needed during the workshop will be provided, including encaustic medium and pigments, a pre-primed panel, oil sticks, brushes, PanPastels, carving tools, hot plates, torches, and other specialized encaustic supplies.

Workshop Schedule

Participants will attend the three evening sessions on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, then choose either the morning or afternoon session on Saturday to complete the workshop.

  • Wednesday, September 23: 4:00–7:00 PM

  • Thursday, September 24: 4:00–7:00 PM

  • Friday, September 25: 4:00–7:00 PM

  • Saturday, September 26 — Choose one:

  • 11:00 AM–2:00 PM or 3:00–6:00 PM

Please indicate your preferred Saturday session when registering.

Cost: $175

Instructor: Kristen Roers

Class size: Limited to 6 adults

Experience: No previous experience necessary

What to Wear & Workshop Safety

Encaustic painting involves heated wax, hot plates, and a small open flame, so appropriate safety precautions will be followed throughout the workshop. Safety glasses and gloves will be provided, and fire extinguishers and a flame-proof waste container will be available. Hot plates will be kept below 190°F.

Please wear long sleeves and clothing you don’t mind getting messy. Long hair must be tied back.

Because the workshop uses wax, pigments, and oil-based art materials, please do not eat during class. Drinks are welcome.

Come ready to experiment, learn something new, and create!

SIGN UP HERE