Encaustic painting is an ancient art form that uses a mixture of beeswax, damar resin, and pigments to create rich, textured works of art. The word "encaustic" comes from the Greek word enkaustikos, meaning "to burn in," which refers to the process of fusing each layer of wax with heat. The molten wax is applied to a surface—usually wood—and then manipulated with brushes, heat tools, or carving tools to create depth, texture, and luminosity. Once cooled, the wax hardens into a durable, slightly glossy finish that brings a unique warmth and dimension to the artwork. Encaustics allow for endless experimentation and layering, making each piece truly one-of-a-kind. Encaustic paintings become very hard over time and are not at risk of melting under normal home conditions.