Sharla Rae

Sharla Rae is a dedicated Encaustic artist, embracing an art form dating back to the ancient Egyptians. Encaustics involve the use of beeswax, damar resin (tree gum), and colored pigments to craft a unique wax paint. Despite its hardness, akin to a crayon, the palette of colors available is vast.

The discovery of painting with Hot Wax™️ ignited her passion. Encaustics, meaning "to burn in," involves melting the wax to 200°F and fusing it with various heated tools—yes, including a blow torch. After cooling, she buffs away the dull bloom, akin to her grandmother waxing the kitchen floor. This transformative moment, the big reveal, showcases the wax's luminosity.

Sharla Rae finds allure in applying melted wax to a wood panel. Manipulating the wax with a blow torch to explore the evolving textures and forms captivates and delights her. Grounding her art in the use of natural elements serves as a reminder of the co-creation she feels blessed to be a part of.