Kimberly Hess Encaustic painting is a technique where heated, pigmented beeswax is applied to a canvas, oftentimes with other mixed media. The term itself is derived from the Greek word enkaustikos, which means “to burn in.” It is one of the first recorded art forms, yet is still used to this day to achieve the most modern of aesthetics. This blend of old and new is what really drew me to explore the medium. My background in drawing and sculpture led me to adapt an encaustic style that is both intricately complex yet serenely balanced. The abstract elements and the intuitive flow of texture evoke a sense of calm and nature in each piece. I was an art education student in Pennsylvania, and have lived, created art, and often taught in major US cities, from Pittsburgh to Chicago, Minneapolis to Atlanta, and most recently Miami. These life experiences have influenced the natural elements in my work.