Ann Shier is an accomplished artist specializing in encaustic painting, an art form that involves stirring pigments into molten wax and then applying it to the surface of the support. Her studies in fine arts, combined with her work as a potter and formal training as a graphic artist, influence her encaustic work. Over the past 18 years, Ann has left her artistic imprint on a wide range of spaces and places. Ann divides her time between her Toronto studio/gallery in the Historical Distillery District, Second Door Studio and her cottage studio located in the Kawartha Lakes. She teaches workshops at both locations.
Her current works, are inspired by her everyday surroundings of cottage life.

ARTIST’S STATEMENT

My encaustic practice is an exploration of the limitless possibilities that this ancient medium offers. Encaustic, a technique that involves the fusion of beeswax, resin, and pigments, allows me to create richly textured and layered artworks that transcend traditional boundaries. Through the process of melting, layering, and manipulating the encaustic medium, I strive to capture the essence of my subjects and evoke a sense of depth and mystery. The fluidity of the wax enables me to create organic forms and abstract compositions that invite viewers to delve into their own interpretations and emotions. The process of working with encaustic is both meditative and unpredictable. Each layer of wax adds a new dimension to the artwork, creating a history and a story that is embedded within the piece itself. This process of building and excavating, of revealing and concealing, mirrors the complexities of life and the human experience. In my encaustic practice, I am constantly pushing the boundaries of the medium, experimenting with new techniques and materials to expand its expressive potential. By incorporating mixed media elements, such as collage and photography, I aim to challenge the traditional notions of encaustic art and create a dialogue between different artistic disciplines. Ultimately, my encaustic practice is a journey of discovery and self-expression. It is a means for me to explore the interplay of texture, color, and form, and to communicate my personal experiences and emotions. Through my encaustic artworks, I invite viewers to embark on their own visual and emotional journey, to engage with the tactile qualities of the wax, and to find solace and inspiration in the beauty and complexity of the encaustic Medium.