I am thrilled that the Encaustic Arts Magazine is publishing its 7th issue, and as excited that the encaustic/wax movement is still flourishing and continually reinventing itself. It’s not a surprise, but simply that I am enjoying a unique perspective from the vantage point of witnessing and being involved in the expansion of the Encaustic Art Institute and Gallery, EAI, teaching within schools and various other formats of encaustic entities.
I am also moved by all of the emails that come in after publishing an issue, from remote places not only in the United States, but around the world. Those encaustic/wax artists are generally setting themselves up with no other means to connect, other than through books and this magazine. Many have told me how this magazine makes them feel a part of something larger. These encaustic artists are on the leading edge within their environments and being driven by their cloistered inspiration.
Within this issue, explore how the wax medium is being used both traditionally and innovatively by artists Helen Dannelly, Melissa Rubin, Eileen P. Goldenberg, Michelle Belto, Michael Billie, Karen Frey, and Shawna Moore. Enjoy beautiful full-color photos of their works and read their in-depth articles about the artists themselves and techniques. In this issue you will also find an article about internet presence by Tristina Dietz-Elmes, who is teaching classes on the subject. A must-read.
All my exposure to artists and this medium, has made me realize that the encaustic/wax art movement is becoming (if it already isn’t) the fastest and largest art movement in America. My aim is to continue to enlighten galleries, museums, and collectors of that fact. I am proud to say that I am further accomplishing this goal with the recent expansion of EAI’s Permanent Collection of encaustic works. Over 160 works of art have been photographed and are awaiting formal binding for marketing to museums. Hopefully soon we will be able to take it on the road!
Douglas Mehrens
Publisher/Encaustic Arts Magazine
CEO/Encaustic Art Institute
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