A number of newer paintings on Perugi Studio are described as Cold Wax & Oil. What is this new (or not so new) painting method? It is a product by Gamblin (and others) made with mostly beeswax and some solvent. When the artist adds oil paint in a ratio of 1 part paint to 3 parts wax, it becomes a spreadable mixture that is easy to use and less expensive than oil alone. Other advantages are its’ luminosity, butter consistancy, and short drying time. It can be textured with tools and layered which is useful for making abstract paintings. Because it is primarily made of wax, it can only be applied to cradle board or other hard surfaces. (Arches oil paper can also be used if it is adhered to a board later.)  The mixture can be collaged with paper and other materials. Other innovations include adding marble dust, sand, pastel powders, etc.

Cold was was introduced in the 30’s as an alternative to hot wax or encaustics. Encaustics involve heating pots that can be dangerous. Cold wax has become more popular in the last few years because of its ease of use, versatiliy and accessibility. And it was reintroduced by the cold wax Bible  “Cold Wax Medium: Techniques, Concepts & Conversations” by Rebecca Crowell & Jerry McLaughlin, now in its third printing. It can be purchased at the website ColdWaxAcademy.com.