Jo Pedersen

I paint from an expressionist perspective which explores energies, ideas or subjects and their perspectives. I am an advocate for justice in the world and within humanity and this informs some of my subjects. This means that my work is quite varied - for me the enjoyment of creating different pieces is quite important and allows an intuitive painting style. Encaustic wax feels very different to work with than more widely known paint mediums and I love the finish which can display a view of layers underneath. It adds a different dimension, colours stay true and all of the works are made up, literally built up, of many layers which can often be 200 or more. Wax has a very sensual feel, is tactile and visually three dimensional so it is often highly textural. It dries quickly so I am involved on a different level, transforming ideas and energy at a faster pace, although the timeline of finishing a piece take often be months especially for larger works. Wax is a unique medium and I love that many people are interested in this and the process as it is so different to what many people have heard of previously. It forms a great talking point and I enjoy this interaction with people. The art is inspired by nature, humanity, energy and balance. As a music lover, it is often inspired by a piece of music. The wax works can be vibrant and dramatic, or peaceful and calming. There is a constant exploration of balance - light and dark, feminine and masculine, emotions and the nuances of human existence. It is closely connected with the natural world (often the ocean) and I spend many hours observing its energy. Encaustic wax is an ancient art form and has some great qualities that I like, for example wax in itself is its own preservative - you can find out more, including which famous artists have used wax by visiting the Story of Encaustic Wax. Commissions form a large part of my work and I very much enjoy collaborating in this way.