I created the above image using plaster bandage (peeled off), cardboard packaging, jute and encaustic wax as explained in my previous post: https://joanneforrest.org/encaustic-wax-process/. As the wax is applied and fused, it creates a lustrous shine, this fades as the wax cools, but can be shined up again with a lint free cloth according to the desired outcome. The objects I have used, fabric, thread, avacado skins tea bags and rusty needles are all quite dull in their appearance and therefore, I have purposefully left the finished surface dull. The covering of found objects in encaustic wax, creates depth and intensifies the colour of the original objects.
For me, the work has become a collection of curiosities – the pieces work really well together and are almost preserved in their appearance which makes me think of museum artifacts. When my collection is complete, I hope to display them in a type of vatrine – maybe one made from the found object. As well as the encaustic wax pieces, I am starting to add other found objects into the collection, items that sit well with the colour palette, of things that are almost archaeological in their appearance – rusty plates cut up from previous etching projects, found pieces of steel – many objects geometric in nature, but some more organic to break up the space and add interest, such as the ‘mummified’ aubergine and stitched avocado skins.
Applying wax does change the nature of the found object, however, this is not always a good thing. I had created a piece with mouldy coffee – lovely and green, expecting the wax to enrich it – it didn’t, it turned the mould black and glossy. The great think with encaustic wax, is I can simply re-heat it, scrape it off the surface and start again, or continue to layer it up and wait and see what happens.