Improvers encaustic wax studio day

As an art teacher and practicing artist, I found Lyn’s patient and knowledgable sharing of skills and techniques very generous, helpful and rewarding.

I have recently spent a wonderful day learning about encaustic art with Lyn Kirkland. I wanted help trying to decide what media I wanted to pursue for my final year Art A level and I now know that Encaustic is the way forward, it has allowed me to be more free and abstract with my final pieces.
Lynn showed me various different techniques and styles and was so helpful and encouraging. Her workshop was hands on and gave me real confidence to move forward and create pieces of art myself.
A perfect environment to learn new techniques, thank you Lyn for a wonderful day of Encaustic Art.

It was lovely to meet you today and thank you for your calm instruction and guidance throughout the workshop. You were very generous with your knowledge.

I love that you gave me choices and advice while we were working. I learned a lot too. It’s alchemy. I love my finished work, it’s definitely going on the wall and not in the loo!

Wishing to take my photography in a new direction I hit upon encaustic art as a possible new medium and knew this was something I could really engage with. I booked two days tuition with Lyn having found her details online. How lucky was I. Lyn is a wonderful teacher, enthusiastic, creative and an Encyclopedia of knowledge and experience. Everything we did was tailor made to my needs, every twist and turn of the process was overseen by Lyn as she guided me through the myriad of possibilities and techniques. The two days flew by and I didn’t want to leave the enviable studio that she generously let me loose in. I came away with two pieces of work - one created by painting with pigment and wax, and the other a photographic collage as well as a vision of how I want to progress with this exciting random medium. Thank you Lyn for your patience, kindness and generosity. I am so excited for my future encaustic artwork.

As I previously attended the Introduction to Contemporary Encaustic Wax workshop with Lyn and thoroughly enjoyed it, I wanted continue this medium by trying the Photo-encaustic Workshop.
Having previous knowledge of the initial processes it allowed me to concentrate on the different techniques used to produce a piece of artwork using photographs. Lyn contacted me a week before the workshop to go through ideas together to see what I wanted to achieve and helped with suggestions. The day was very relaxed and having the one-to-one attention it made the experience so enjoyable and I went away with the amazing knowledge supplied by Lyn and a fantastic piece of work. I would highly recommend this course and the Introduction to Contemporary Encaustic Wax to a complete beginner to an experienced artist.

Had a fantastic day with Lyn learning different techniques in Encaustic Wax. A full on day but Lyn kept it to my leisurely pace, but covered so much. I explained that I didn't want to create a masterpiece....today... but wanted to learn the fundamentals of this new medium to me. I took photos and kept notes throughout the day. Lyn also provided an excellent 'suggested starter kit' which I'm currently going through and cant wait to start creating. Not only was the tutoring excellent, the setting of the workshop and Lyn's hospitality with her home made cakes and endless cups of tea, have to say the best workshop I've ever been on. Thanks Lyn.

I had a super day with Lyn, who is great at sharing her considerable knowledge and skills. Workshop was ideal, being in a quaint courtyard setting with plenty of fresh air and `Covid safe. I will definitely go back for a follow up course once had chance to practice what I’ve learnt. Cannot recommend this lady highly enough! Just wish my strict diet didn't prevent me from sampling the home made cake on offer!

It was my first attempt at Photo Encaustic Art at the one day workshop, with the tuition of Lyn Kirkland, our talented and wonderful teacher, who made the day so relaxed and enjoyable.
It was such a unique process. I loved the idea of adding a photo and layering with wax. I loved the textures, coloured pigments and most of all the playfulness of adding your own signature to the end result. I chose a photo of my beloved elderly pet dog. My photo is now so much more interesting and feels more personal to me. My own unique piece of work. Thank you and shall be back to have some more fun!

Dear Lyn
It was so lovely meeting you and I absolutely loved the course. I am still on a high and my family could not believe the quality of my art work.

You truly are an inspirational teacher and loved your laid back, calming nature, as you made learning a joy. I loved the way you made me feel I could accomplish the tasks, as you gave me confidence in myself, so thank you so much.
You also made the most delicious sugar free fruit cake. Yummy!

Thank you for a Fabulous, Fun, two days and will look at dates tomorrow for the next course.

I would thoroughly recommend this one day workshop with Lyn! She made me feel very welcome and it was really fascinating to learn more about this ancient art form. The course comes with an extensive list on how to set up your own encaustic studio and lots of tips from Lyn in how to manage the materials. Lyn is clearly very experienced and skilled! She broke down the process into manageable steps, but also gave me enough space to play around with the techniques independently. Her studio is bright and full of inspiration: be it from the many objects/ textures Lyn's collected, her own beautiful art work or the coastal location. I only came to learn about the process, but I was pleasantly surprised to make a painting that I would be happy to hang on the wall! Thanks so much Lyn!

Thank you Lyn for a most informative and enjoyable day. Considering my friend and I were absolute beginners, I was delighted to end up with such an accomplished finished product.
Lyn is patient and flexible whilst covering all the basics, and her enthusiasm shines though it all. She has inspired me to have a try at home. I thoroughly recommend trying one of Lyn's courses.

I've just spent the most amazing day with Lyn (and my friend Beki!). Painting with hot wax is such good fun and Lyn spent a lot of time showing us the basics and then building up to more advanced processes as the day went on. Texturing, moulding, adding highlights with different materials. She is a great teacher and very giving with her time. 10/10!

“I had a great day with Lyn in her studio on a one to one photo encaustic workshop. I learnt about encaustic history and tested a variety of encaustic techniques which has given me a great insight into how I may use this in the future in my work. It was a really interesting day, Lyn’s a great teacher, and it was a lot of fun too”

"I have just spent a wonderful morning with Lyn in her studio on Portland. Lyn's studio is in a great location and the welcome she gave was so warm and motivating.There was an impressive and unlimited collection of pigments and materials at my disposal. Added to which, Lyn's enthusiasm for encaustic art and her willingness to share her skills, made for a really worthwhile experience. Lyn was intuitive about when I needed her at my side to demonstrate and make suggestions, and when I needed to test out the waxes on my own. Now I have tried encaustic art for the first time, I shall definitely return for another session. Highly recommended!"

While visiting the UK from New Zealand in June, I enjoyed a two day
encaustic workshop with Lyn and it was amazing. Lyn was fabulous at sharing
her knowledge and techniques to create an encaustic artwork.  I am a
mixed media artist, but had not worked with encaustic wax before. I am now a
convert and can not wait to return to my studio and further develop these
skills. Lyn made the experience so much fun and we had a lot of laughs along
the way. I love her work and she was very happy to teach me many of the
techniques she uses. Thanks so much Lyn, for a very special two days in your
studio.

Hey Lyn,
Had a fabulous time and loved working with you!!! Your enthusiasm for encaustic has rubbed off and I can’t wait to get my “studio” up and running. Thanks for sharing all your tips and tricks with me.

My daughter and I have recently spent a most enjoyable day with Lyn Kirkland at her Portland workshop learning the technique of inserting photographs, which we supplied, into wax which resulted in fantastic 3d images. Lyn copied our pictures onto special ‘paper’, provided us with three different sized wooden boards and all the wax.
Lyn, a lovely, incredibly talented lady, is patient, kind and fun to be with, and as a bonus coffee or tea were served all day. She also makes the most delicious cakes which she shared with us. If you haven’t already tried encaustic work I can thoroughly recommend that you have a go.

As a photographer, I wanted to learn more about embedding my images in wax and exploring ways to create texture. Lyn planned her day course with me meticulously - she was in touch prior to find out exactly what I wanted to learn and made some very helpful suggestions to maximise our time together. On arrival, she had prepared various birch panels for our experimentations and also printed my images on to a variety of papers so I could see what difference that would make in the final piece. We managed to complete four pieces, but it never felt rushed or overwhelming. In fact, Lyn made sure I had all the information as printouts and she spoilt with lunchtime nibbles, which was a lovely bonus! I look forward to future courses with Lyn - she’s a wonderful teacher with a warm, generous personality. Highly recommended.

I had the most fantastic day with Lyn a couple of weeks ago learning as a complete art beginner. Lyn is not only incredibly talented but a wonderfully fun teacher. We explored many different techniques whilst focusing on my core interest of the sea. The tips & tricks and money saving hacks that Lyn provided has made this an exciting but also realistic medium to continue. I would highly recommend this to all. Thank you so much!!!

I wanted inspiration and insight into this art/craft and a day with Lyn Kirkland gives you exactly that. Open to sharing her knowledge and skills freely, I had a fabulous day learning the techniques associated with this art form under Lyn's patient and inspirational guidance. You will not be disappointed by choosing this intriguing course. Go away with your created project, inspired to explore this craft further and a list of items to set you on your path. Free tea and coffee and scrumptious homemade cake together with Lyn's friendly, warm personality and charm will leave you hungry for more and a yearning to return again. Thank you Lyn. It was a great day!!

I have had the most amazing day with Lyn, she has so much knowledge she kindly shares with you and great teaching skills. It is one of the most exciting mediums I have ever used, having the unexpected wow factor. Lyn's passion truly shines through and it becomes contagious. I love lyn's sense of humour, truly had a good old chuckle with her. I think every one should have a go and don't not be scared as Lyn puts you at ease.
I shall proudly put my piece of encaustic work on my wall as a memory of our day, unlocking myself. Also the foraging cake was lush. A huge thank to you Lyn. Good luck for tonight and tomorrow. Jackie x

Lyn is a very generous with her knowledge on ALL things encaustic.
Having spent the day working with her in her lovely little studio finding
out about different ways you can use wax as a medium. I am now full of
ideas I can;t wait to try out for myself. She is very patience
and caters for your artistic vision whilst gently encouraging you explore
the medium through her demonstrations.

Even though I have used encaustic before it was good to get sound advice on
technique and products to use in encaustic to improve upon my own work and
give me the confidence to further pursue encaustic painting for myself.

I highly recommend Lyn’s workshops to all levels from beginners to
well establish artists, there is something for everyone. She also makes nice
tea and cakes!

“Have spent an inspiring 2 days with Lyn, have learnt so much and had lots of fun. Her knowledge of her craft is huge and she shares it with enthusiasm. Cakes were great too😁.”

We recently spent a wonderful day with the lovely, talented Lyn at her Encaustic Workshop. The method was entirely different to the Encaustic work that was familiar to us but Lyn talked us through the processes patiently sharing thoughts and ideas. Consequently we came home with two pieces of art work that we were so pleased to have produced. Don’t hesitate have a go you won’t regret it but beware Lyn’s cakes are so scrummy - make sure you leave room for a slice or two.

“My mum and I simply had the most fun and creative day doing our wax workshop with Lyn. We both got totally hooked on the joy of encaustic wax and are really looking forward to doing it again - Lyn was so helpful and lovely to spend the day with too.”

I have just completed Day@The Studio with Lyn and must say it has been fantastic experience. I wish I'd known it before... Lyn is very generous in explaining the secrets of encaustics (so hard to find) and she makes the best chocolate brownies ever!!!
I strongly recommend this class, you will learn a lot plus you will be in a great company of passionate and patient artist Lyn!!
PS Portland was a great discovery

Dear Lyn, thank you for inspirational moments at your Atelier! I enjoyed every second and have learned so much!! Highly recommended!!!

I had a great time learning all things encaustic. Thank you for sharing your marvellous tips n tricks with me ! So generous of you , I only wish we had had more time to play ! MY colleagues were very impressed and want to also learn the technique too! So, again many thanks for such a welcoming and thoroughly enjoyable day ….you are fab!

I want to thank you for the truly inspiring encaustic workshop.Not only did I go away knowing some wonderful techniques and a sound basis of encaustic painting but your sharing of ideas was so generous and encouraging.I felt that you understood the approach I have to painting and you helped me to realise this in a new medium.It certainly suits my style and I can't wait to set up my own encaustic equipment.Your helpful information as to where to obtain the equipment economically is a godsend.
I loved the medium of wax and pigment,the pace and smell of it all and the magic of it!
I was so pleased with my final painting and can recall exactly how each part of it was achieved,a useful reference indeed.I took it to my art class the next day along with your leaflets and everyone was so interested and intrigued.
I will spread the word.Thank you,Lyn,for a truly memorable and creative day.

I had a wonderful day with Lyn and came away inspired to continue with the technique. Lyn is very giving with ideas to try whilst at the same time being sensitive to each person's individual approach and their desires for the type of work they would like to achieve. She gave lots of tips about equipment and how to use everyday objects to minimise costs as well as supplying a comprehensive hand out of suppliers. Focused work in a relaxed atmosphere. Great.

It has all been really exciting, and I learned a lot, both about wax processes, and about putting the colours and additions together so that they work. It has been a real worthwhile experience, and I can't wait to do it again!

I have just spent a wonderful day with Lyn Kirkland being taught the delightful alchemy of encaustic art. Lyn is an excellent teacher, inspiring and keen to share all the possibilities of the medium, whilst sensitive enough to step back to give plenty of room for her students' own ideas to take form. I would heartily recommend Lyn if you are curious about this fascinating medium.

Thank you so much for today Lyn, I had a fantastic time!
Jules x

Had an amazing time at Lyn's encaustic wax workshop on Monday. It was
a fun day, lots of laughs, lovely home cooked food and a great bright
studio. Lyn is really patient so a very relaxed environment in which to
learn. Thanks Lyn

I enjoyed an informative and interesting day with Lyn, learning techniques
completely new to me. I came away with a lot of information,
enthusiasm, an experimental panel of artwork that has been much admired -
and one of her delicious chocolate brownies:) Must try the collagraph
next. Thank you, Lyn, for a great day.

We Flew over from Spain to do two days workshop with Lyn. We learned loads and cannot recommend Lyn enough. Lyn is very welcoming and has an excellent approach to teaching and sharing information. Also Lyn does not 'skimp' on equipment and materials. Nothing was too much trouble and hopefully next time we are in UK we will incorporate another workshop. A very big thanks for such an enjoyable and informative couple of days Lyn. Mal Wylde and Susan Weatherstone

I took part in one of Lyn's encaustic art workshops more than 8 weeks ago and fell in love with using wax as an art medium. Lyn teaches in a patient and encouraging way and makes every session interesting and enjoyable. Encaustic art is a new technique for me. It is relatively simple yet every session has been different in an inspiring way. I highly recommend Lyn's workshops and shall be continuing to attend them, as well as carrying on my new found passion at home. Many Thanks to Lyn and to the Purbeck Workshop for hosting them.

I have just enjoyed a Workshop day with Lyn today. It was very informative and extremely enjoyable. Lyn is a friendly and very talented teacher and was equipped to help me produce a beautiful piece of encaustic artwork. Even more importantly she has inspired me to continue in this media. Very exciting and rewarding. Thank you Lyn.