Wax Art

Arts & Activities, Nov, 2004 by Jerome J. Hausman

[PRINT] WAX ART (2002; $17.95) by Hazel Marsh. Sterling Publishing Co., Inc., 387 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016.

To some, wax painting is thought to be a relatively new art form. Actually, painting with wax ("encaustic art") has a tradition that goes back almost 2,000 years. Mummy portraits of Rome and Egypt serve as the earliest examples of encaustic painting. Nevertheless, Hazel Marsh's book, Wax Art, can serve as a new, different and distinctive resource for painting.

There would be the obvious problems in using these techniques with younger children. Obviously, the need for a heat source to melt wax poses an element of physical danger. Hence, this book and its recommended activities would be more appropriate for middle- and high-school students.

The sections of the book are very much centered on techniques and approaches for the use of wax in art activities: tools, equipment, materials; getting started; painting landscapes with the iron; wax painting on other backgrounds; creating textures with wax. A great deal of specific detail is given. Yet the text invites experimentation and trial approaches. As the author put it in one of her "hot tips": "Try to relax while you are painting because it helps to keep your movements more fluid."--J.J.H. For information about this publication, circle No. 393 on the Reader Service Card.