This month’s featured creator is Pam White.

ARTIST NAME | Pam White

Encaustic Wax Artist

How would you describe your work? 

In the most basic of terms, I paint water using fire. Encaustic wax is a process of applying wax, resin and pigment on a substrate. I use a torch as my paintbrush. From there, I delicately and tastefully find abstract ways to design my piece using inspiration around me. 

Which other artists most inspired you?  

Certainly Helen Frankenthauler. When I saw her piece “The Bay,” I sat in front of it, and tears rolled down my face. I’ve always loved Marcia Myers’ work, her story behind it and the way she overcame her frustrations with art.

Where do you find your best sources for inspiration?   

I am surrounded by the beauty of the Carolinas. While I can certainly paint the landscape, I prefer to dissect the view and create an abstraction of it. 

What is the greatest compliment you’ve received about your work? 

I’ve had three clients cry when receiving my work, which is inspiring. I’ve received beautiful letters and even tips. However, the greatest compliment I’ve received was the reaction of my (grown and gone) sons to a piece I’d just completed. They see my work all the time, but they both agree, I’m still evolving. 

What are you working on now that you are excited about? 

I’m working on a field of sunflowers. It has mountains in the background, fields that have deep accretion (texture) and, of course, sunflowers that appear as if they’re beginning to melt…like they would in the heat of August. It began as a practice for a commission I’m starting which is a huge painting of Engineer Mountain. I was playing with the mountain range and the sunflowers just arrived in my mind. It’s pretty cool.

What is one piece of creative advice you wish you had learned sooner? 

There are actually two things that come to mind. First, LIVE creatively in every aspect of your life. Second, take a break and go away…find an art retreat and immerse yourself in the unknown. Not a class but an actual multi day retreat. 

Where can our readers learn more about you and see some more examples of your work? 

Juelerye Artisan Gallery and Gifts in Mooresville, NC or the Grand Bohemian Gallery in Charleston, SC.

If you are interested in learning more about this month’s artist, visit her on Instagram @pamwhite3 or at Pjwhiteart.com.