Deborah Martell

I am inspired by cloud formations with sun and sky reflections. I have discovered that the melting, shifting encaustic process can mimic the fluidity of cloud formations, the luminescence of the sky and the reflections on water. Instead of simply layering the encaustic material, I meticulously paint and manipulate the wax to create detailed images that are more than the typical encaustic abstract.

My process starts by painting the background colors and clouds with acrylic on a gesso prepared birch panel. I then paint multiple layers of encaustic (pigmented beeswax and resin) to create depth of colors and shapes to create the image or landscape. Each layer is fused and manipulated with a hot air gun or torch. I use opalescent and metallic layers in or under the wax pigment with oil pastel accents. Each piece is somewhat experimental and always unique.

I am a lifetime artist and graphic designer with previous emphasis on acrylic painting. I discovered encaustic painting and have embraced this medium for its layering texture and color depth. I was born in Germany, raised in New Jersey and San Diego and now live in Boise, Idaho.

Bachelor of Arts in Visual Art and Communication; University of California, San Diego

Associates Degree, Digital Graphic Design; University of California, San Diego

Self taught fine artist