Encaustic painting is an ancient technique with recovered Egyptian art as far back as 100–300 AD. The technique involves mixing pigment and melted damar resin with molten beeswax. The molten mixture is then applied to a hard surface using a variety of techniques.
Tami has several paintings that are created completely of encaustic paint and a prepared board, but many of her paintings begin with layers of plaster that is manipulated to create a foundation of texture. Depending on the “personality” of the piece, she may add found objects. Some pieces may tell a story from the artist, but many tell a different story to each observer.
Touch and smell are very important parts of the experience as most beeswax has a faint sweet smell from the honey. The artist also encourages the viewer to gently run their fingers over each piece to experience the varying textures.