Materials and technique statement

Jamie Gray is an installation artist who transforms wood into a distinctive appearance by heating and layering beeswax and pigments on its surface. Gray enhances the supple encaustic wax surface through a repetitive mark-making process, adding textures and abstract motifs. Jamie intentionally connects her artistic practice to her love of nature by utilizing natural, renewable materials and slow, handcrafted techniques.

Care and Handling of Encaustic Art

Encaustic art is an archival and historic technique that dates back to ancient Egyptian art, around 100–300 AD. The encaustic wax medium (made of beeswax and natural tree resin) acts as a natural preservative, remaining impervious to moisture, insects, and mildew, making it highly archival and colorfast.

While the hardened wax surface is quite robust, it can still scratch or chip if not handled carefully. Treat encaustic art like any other piece of fine art. 

Transport & storage

When packing encaustic art for transportation or storage, always cover the artwork’s wax surface with clean wax or parchment paper first, then wrap it in a layer of protective foam. Never wrap the artwork directly in plastic (such as plastic wrap or bubble wrap) as this will leave imprints on the surface. 

Temperature 

Hang, transport, and store encaustic art in normal indoor room temperatures. Do not place work in areas exposed to freezing temperatures or intense heat. The wax has a total melting point of 150°F.

Installation

Handle the wax surface with care. Wear cotton gloves when handling to prevent finger oils from transferring to the surface. However, if fingerprints appear simple buff the entire surface clean with a soft, lint-free cloth.

When carrying and installing larger panels or large unified wall sculptures, avoid forcing the small connecting joints to prevent them from breaking. Carry the large sections vertically to minimize strain on the connecting joints.

The artist recommends installing her artwork under natural daylight or soft gallery lighting, rather than harsh spotlights.

Cleaning

Avoid touching the wax surface. If moisture or fingerprints appear, gently buff the entire surface clean with a soft, lint-free cloth. Do not use chemical cleaners.

Encaustic art does not require varnishing or protection by glass; however, just like glass, the surface can dull over time due to everyday dust and air exposure. You can renew the glossy sheen by gently buffing the entire surface with a dry, soft, lint-free cloth.

As the wax cures over the first 6-12 months, the artwork may develop “bloom,” a naturally occurring hazy or dull residue (this may be more apparent on dark colors). You can renew the glossy wax luster by gently buffing the entire wax surface with a soft, lint-free cloth.