36” x 48” Encaustic 2024

Susan Wallis fell in love with the ancient medium of encaustic painting in 2002. Previously an acrylic painter she was very unhappy with the flatness of the acrylic medium. She loved the depth and colour of oil but found the messiness and long drying time cumbersome. The encaustic medium became the perfect solution to her creative dilemma. Wax and oil mixed together provide her with the vibrancy of colour inherent of oil, unbelievable texture, combined with the quickness of drying that suits her impatient temperament. Once the wax cools, the medium is dry to touch within seconds.

Currently her muse is the Canadian landscape. The vast fields, forests and lakescapes of Canada provide endless inspiration. Although traditional in subject manner her approach is that of simplicity. "I believe strongly that a painting should depict the act of seeing, not merely the object seen" states Susan.