Joan Kocak

Many of my images are symbolic of the interest often found in the graphic patterns and lines of nature. The technique used in my work is photographic encaustic- a print mounted onto cradled birchwood and then layered with several coats of melted beeswax and resin fused together with a blow torch. Oftentimes encaustic pigment is added as well. The process is an adaptation of ancient encaustic painting begun in Greece as far back as the 5th century B.C.

A former graphic artist, I’ve long been interested in photography and mixed media. In recent years, encaustic photography has been my focus.
The process is messy but enjoyable and adds unique layering that can be coaxed into either a smooth or more textured finish. Living in New England provides an endless source of subjects along the many trails and conservation areas on which my dogs take me for walks. And the changing seasons are a huge bonus.
Publications include SHOTS Magazine, Digital SLR Photography Magazine, The Sun Magazine, Stark Magazine and On Landscape Magazine, and permanent exhibit at The Center for Fine Art Photography in Fort Collins, CO.