What is encaustic (caustic) art?

Encaustic art is created using beeswax mixed with damar resin and pigment, then melted and applied in layers. Each layer is fused with heat, giving it that soft glow and texture you can see and feel. It’s a process that’s part science, part emotion; every layer reveals something new.

Will my encaustic painting melt?
Not under normal conditions. Beeswax is stable up to around 120°F, so as long as you’re not hanging it above a fireplace or in direct sunlight, it’ll be perfectly fine. Encaustic continues to harden and cure over time, about 12 to 18 months. If you ever want to bring back that high shine, just buff it gently with a clean cotton cloth or an old T-shirt. It’s that simple.

Can encaustic art be framed or hung without glass?
Yes, and honestly, I prefer it that way. The surface needs to breathe, and light plays beautifully across the wax. If you want to frame it, a floater or shadow frame works best, but it’s not necessary.

How do I clean it?
You don’t need to do much. A light buffing with a soft cloth now and then is all it takes. Never use water, polish, or any cleaners. If you notice a little haze (called “bloom”), just wipe it; that’s part of the wax’s natural process.

Orders & Commissions

Do you take custom orders?
Yes, I love doing commissions. We’ll start with a conversation about what colors speak to you, what kind of emotion or movement you want the piece to carry. Once we settle on the direction, a 50% non-refundable deposit secures your spot and covers materials.

How long does it take?
On average, four to six weeks, depending on the size and complexity. I’ll send you photos or updates as they come to life so you feel connected to the process.

Can I request something specific?
Absolutely. I often work in custom color palettes and use materials like metallic leaf or resin for depth. Each piece is built with intention and made to reflect you…your story, your space, your feeling.

Shipping, Returns, & Protection

How is artwork shipped?
I handle every piece personally before it leaves my studio. It’s packed with temperature-safe materials and rigid foam to protect it during travel, and shipped insured with tracking. I want it to arrive exactly as it left, perfect.

What is your return policy?
Because every piece is handmade and one-of-a-kind, all sales are final.
If your piece arrives damaged, please reach out within seven days with photos of the packaging and artwork. I’ll work with you to repair or replace it when possible.

What if I need to cancel a commission?
Once I start, your deposit becomes non-refundable because materials and studio time are set aside specifically for your piece. If something unexpected happens, reach out. I’ll always do my best to find a fair solution.

Artist Rights & Ownership

Do I own the rights to the artwork?
When you buy a piece, you own the physical artwork, but the copyright and reproduction rights remain with me. That just means you can’t make prints or reproduce it commercially; the original stays unique. It protects the integrity of both of us.

Can I share photos online?
Please do. I love seeing where my work ends up and how it lives in people’s spaces. Tag @AlarkaArtStudio or link to AlarkaArtStudio.com so I can celebrate it with you.

Studio Promise

Every piece that leaves my hands is built with care, signed, dated, and sealed with the highest-quality materials. All artwork is insured and tracked for safe delivery. With simple care, encaustic art will last generations. It’s one of the oldest and most enduring media in existence.

Caring for Your Encaustic Art

• Keep away from direct sunlight or extreme heat.

• Buff gently with a soft cloth to bring back its natural shine.

• Never use water or cleaning products.

• Let it breathe… no glass or plastic covering needed.

Return & Exchange Policy

All sales are final.
If your artwork arrives damaged, contact me at alarkaartstudio.com within seven days. Each piece is shipped fully insured and packed with care.

Artist Protection & Rights

You own the original piece, but reproduction and commercial rights remain with me.
When you share photos, tag @AlarkaArtStudio. I’m always grateful to see my work in its new home.

A Note from Robyn

When you bring one of my pieces into your home, you’re not just buying art…you’re taking home part of my process, my time, and a piece of who I am. Every layer of wax, pigment, and texture is built with intention. Some are quiet, reflective moments; others are raw, emotional, or full of light. I pour myself into each one until it feels like it has its own heartbeat.

My work isn’t meant to be perfect… It’s meant to feel. It’s about reflection, healing, and finding beauty in the spaces between. I want it to start a quiet conversation between you and the world around you… something you don’t have to explain, just feel when you walk past it.

Thank you for allowing my work to find a place in your space, for believing in handmade art, and for supporting the journey that keeps this studio alive. Every piece I make carries a little bit of my story …and I’m grateful you’ve chosen to make it part of yours.

~Robyn Leigh
Alarka Art Studio
www.AlarkaArtStudio.com