Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop reviews

Angie. D reviewed: Photo-encaustic workshop

"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!"

Angie D reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"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."

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

" Angie, it was a pleasure to meet you and spend the day exploring all the versatile properties of encaustic wax in a safe, and socially distanced space. The painting you have produced is very ‘you’ I feel. Balanced, calming and imbued with your spirituality. Would love to do more with you in the future. Take care"

Faye reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"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!"

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

" It was a joy to share encaustic with you Faye. Enjoy your painting, and I hope that you do some more. Thank you for your kind words."

Kate reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"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."

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

" Dear Kate and Mel, Thank you for your review of the workshop. It was a pleasure to meet you both, and I was seriously impressed with your finished work on the day. Do keep in touch, would love to see more of your encaustic work, Take care Lyn"

Chris Greening reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"I have a background in geology, the marine environment and am now a potter. I dabble in acrylic paint and mixed media but I have always been intrigued by the concept of encaustic wax. So when I saw Lyn's work and course details I knew I had to treat myself to one of her whole day courses - and what an excellent experience it has been. Lyn's communication throughout the process has been excellent and her introduction to a subject that could possibly be quite daunting was undertaken in a thorough, unambiguous and yet exciting manner as to options and variations available in the subject matter. We worked on preparation of the surfaces, what surfaces result in different effects, alternatives to the normal materials and the suppliers of those materials. We discussed what techniques may lend itself to the influences for the designs. I am very abstract in my approach (can't draw - won't draw) and this technique suits those "real life artistically challenged" amongst us perfectly. I was very pleasantly surprised by the range of effects that are possible with just small variations in materials and through quite a limited palette one could produce a vast array of finishes - including pigmented wax but also found objects, textured paper, images, scratching away at surfaces and different brush techniques. Saying that, Lyn literally has a workshop full of materials - if you can't find what you need, it probably isn't worth trying! It was a really enjoyable day run by a true professional with a passion for her subject matter; it really comes across and her eagerness to get the best results for you. And of course onto the most important thing - the carrot cake - best ever!! I thoroughly recommend you do this course and stay on the Isle of Portland and explore this intriguing landscape which will inspire you in your creativity! It's given me a lot of food for thought as to how I could move my existing practices onwards. Thanks Lyn!"

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

" Chris, that is a most generous review of today. I thoroughly enjoyed it too. So exciting to share encaustic wax with others who are looking to resolve questions, and maybe find new ways and treatments for their existing practice. Keep in touch, I would love to see some finished pots! Oh, and thank you for the pots...I will enjoy working on them. All the best Lyn"

Emma Bradley reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"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!"

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

" Dear Emma & Beki, it was a pleasure to spend the day with you. I do hope that you use what you have learned in your studies Emma, and please get in touch if you fancy trying photo-Encaustic! Thank you Lyn ?"

Alice reviewed: Photo-encaustic workshop

"“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”"

Genny L. Blandford reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

""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!""

Mel Brew reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"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."

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

" Hi Mel, we did have fun, and learnt a lot too. Can’t wait to see your Encaustic pieces. Take care Lyn"

Suzanne S reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"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."

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

" Great to meet you Suzanne, I hope you set up your Studio and get fusing soon!! Take care Lyn"

Hilary & Ali reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"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."

Nina Hollington reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"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."

Georgina reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"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!!!"

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

" Georgina it was lovely meeting you. I do hope that you continue with encaustic wax, it is so exciting to work with. Keep in touch. All the best Lyn x"

Mandy Davies reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"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!!"

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

" Mandy, thank you so much for your review of the day. I am so pleased that you enjoyed it. Hope you give it a go! Thanks Lyn x"

Jackie Billyard reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"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"

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

" Thank you so much for your review of the day. I feel we achieved a great deal and I hope that you will go on to explore more techniques with encaustic wax. Lovely to meet you. Lyn x"

Jo-Anne McAllister reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"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!"

Sara Rogers reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"“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?.”"

Hilary South reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"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."

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

" Hilary, it was a pleasure to have both your company for the day, I do hope that you continue to explore encaustic. Best wishes Lyn"

Barbara Chomos reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"While away on a holiday in the Pacific Northwest I stumbled across Encaustic Art and once I returned to Jersey I started searching for a workshop to help me get started. After combing the internet I found Lyn Kirkland who was available for a private two day workshop in Portland, Dorset. Once I made my way there, I had a wonderful time with Lyn learning so many techniques I would have been guessing at if I didn’t have this “hands on” experience. There is so much to know about encaustic painting and Lyn is inspirational and generous with her knowledge and her art supplies. In the end, I came home with two pieces I will treasure forever. Thank you so much for your patience and guiding me through a multitude of steps with your relaxed expertise. And, for putting me in touch with Pam DuVal so I could stay in her cosy Little Bee Cottage. Honestly, between the homemade cakes and and warm comraderie, I would love to come back and spend more time learning this way of artistic expression. I would highly recommend this course to anyone. Barbara Chomos - St. Brelade, Jersey"

Natalie & Jan reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"“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.”"

Mia reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"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"

Una St Tropez reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

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

Hermione Macdonald-Thomson reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"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!"

Clare Abrahamsen reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"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."

Frances P reviewed: Contemporary encaustic wax introductory workshop

"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."