I’ve always quietly created art in the background, surrounded by other artists but not really considering myself one of them. I worked with charcoal, pastel, and print, but when I found encaustic it was like coming home. I found my voice and my vehicle. I lose myself in the smells, the colors, the depth, texture and luminosity of a painting and because encaustic is so immediate and physical, I do not have time to allow the “rules” to interfere with the sheer joy of painting. I can paint, layer and scrape to my hearts content.

Sometimes I embed the bits of detritus that I am drawn to when I am outdoors. The pieces of metal, feathers, moss, and glass have become part of my paintings. Beeswax makes an excellent adhesive. I can finally justify my walking with my head to the ground looking for bits and pieces of nature that have found their way to my path.

I work on at least a couple pieces at a time and each painting, through the silence and the interaction, talks to me. The painting tells me what it wants and when it is complete. I listen to the painting.

Some paintings speak to the feminine experience, some to the world around us, and some just to the pure joy of creating something beautiful. I feel particularly gratified when someone else is able to experience joy, laughter, or serenity when viewing one of my works.

Enjoy,
Binky Bergsman

BINKY'S BLOG