Erica Konrad uses the time honoured medium of encaustic to create one of a kind contemporary clocks. Encaustic is a medium which consists of molten beeswax, damar resin (sap from a tree), and pigments that are fused after application into a continuous layer and fixed to a support (wood) with heat. This achieves a lustrous enamel appearance.

An ancient art form dating back to 4th century BC, the word encaustic comes from the ancient Greek 'enkausticos' and means 'to heat' or 'to burn,' which refers to the process of fusing between layers of brushstrokes. You will soon be able to view her encaustic paintings on her website. Watch this page for a direct link.

Encaustic is very durable and an excellent investment. This is due to the fact that beeswax is impervious to moisture. Therefore, it will not deteriorate, it will not darken and it will not yellow.  Encaustic paintings do not have to be varnished or protected by glass. If your painting looks dull, or gets dirty it can be wiped clean with a soft, lint-free cloth and buffed to a high shine. Once buffed, the painting's luster and brilliance in colour will re-emerge.

While encaustic is the most archival of all media, special care is required for the painting surface. Exposure to extreme cold can result in cracking, while exposure to extreme heat can cause the surface to melt. This painting should not be hung on an exterior-facing wall, over a fireplace, heating vent or in direct sunlight. Do not leave it in a hot car for an extended period of time. The wax will melt at 150 degrees.

View more of Erica's encaustic work at ericakonrad.wordpress.com