Artist Statement
“Alabaster” is a sculptural series celebrating the power of positive intention and transformation. Inspirations for these pieces originate from a string of recent personal losses and vivid, dark imagery manifested in dreams. Using the translucent properties of encaustic as a sculptural medium, I wanted to explore ways to alter this dark imagery. Death and transcendence are still major themes, but with representations of preservation, purity and resting places. Forms are inspired by the cycles of nature, from budding to weathered & wilting. The finished sculptures represent a visual prayer - a reminder to be present with loss while ushering in surrender and a gentle return to the earth.
Process
To make the sculptural work, wire is formed into vessels and foliage, sealed with glue-saturated tissue, then brushed and fused with encaustic medium. Layers are built up, carved into, and hand-smoothed; revealing organic forms and enhancing desired imperfections. Oil pigments are rubbed into the wax to weather and decay the foliage, leaving behind a buttery-soft matte finish. After curing, the pieces are assembled into the final sculpture along with organic and salvaged/found materials. Canvas pieces are created with troweled plaster over birch panel, then brushed with graphite powder and fused with encaustic medium. Oil pigments add 3-dimensional depth and texture, evocative of translucent cloth on flesh and marble. Some pieces are marked with asemic (open, unsemantic) letterforms in India ink.
Click here for Blog post: “Lacrimosa” Opening: Gratitude & Reflection
“Tears of Epione” encaustic & metal headdress by Lisa Donohue | . photo by Kook Teflon
“Charon’s Gift” process photos
“Tears of Epione” Process photos
“Harbour” process photos
