Laberge

Artist Andrée-Anne Laberge has been using encaustic in her work for over 20 years. Encaustic painting on wood is an ancient technique dating back to antiquity; the Egyptians used this very method to paint their sarcophagi. Laberge creates her paint using a blend of beeswax, tree resin, and pigments. It is an exceptionally durable medium that stands the test of time, as it is completely waterproof, resistant to mold and bacteria, and holds no appeal for insects. The Fayum mummy portraits created using this technique have survived for over 2,000 years without cracking or losing their luster! While encaustic paintings should not be exposed to extreme heat, they actually tolerate heat quite well. They are, however, more sensitive to cold. Care must therefore be taken during transport to protect the artworks from freezing temperatures, which could cause them to crack. Over time, some surface oxidation may occur. Simply buffing the surface with a soft cloth will restore the painting to its original brilliance!