Encaustic painting is my favourite method of image making. It has gained some popularity in the UK where most artists use an iron to apply the wax which yields a very particular effect. For many reasons I prefer the more traditional painterly methods using hotplates, hot air guns, blow torches, razor blades and traditional brushes. This method yields a wonderful range of possibilities-from realistic and representational through to abstract and impressionistic. Encaustic monotypes are also possible as are encaustic sculptures. This is a particularly flexible medium. The aroma of the melted beeswax is an added pleasure.