Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop reviews

Jean and Min reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

"We spent a brilliant day with Lyn who took us through the basics of encaustic wax art work. It was our first experience of using this medium. We hugely enjoyed ourselves and Lynn was a great tutor, kind, patient and lots of fun. We came away feeling very proud of what we had produced and would highly recommend this course to anyone. The tea and cake was an added bonus to what was a wonderful day."

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

"Thank you ladies, so pleased that you enjoyed the day with wax! I think you both produced lovely pieces, do hope they end up on the wall. Safe onward journey. Happy 60th to Richard ??x"

Debbie W reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

"What a lovely day. Time just flew past. You are a good and patient teacher explaining the steps and you gave me great confidence. I love my picture and am already planning the next one. I will recommend you to my friends. Best wishes,"

Debbie Crane reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

"Thank you for sharing all your knowledge so generously on what was a very enjoyable day you gave me space to experiment and play and I feel confident enough to get started with what I hope will be a new chapter in my art. Encaustic wax is a big subject 1 was amazed how much we covered in the day, and had time for tea and cake! Best wishes Debbie.."

Wendy Aldiss reviewed: Bespoke Photo-encaustic workshop

"I had a great day with Lyn. I learnt so much in a relaxed, happy atmosphere with Lyn's expertise ensuring my mistakes were small ones. Not every artist can teach well but Lyn certainly can and I would recommend her workshops to anyone."

Elena Pujol reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

"I had a fantastic day with Lyn learning different techniques in Encaustic Wax. A really full-on day, but Lyn kept a relaxing atmosphere, whilst covering so much. I didn't want to create a masterpiece but wanted to learn more of the fundamentals of this medium, having dabbled a bit at home, I needed guidance from an expert. I had seen Lyn's work during Arts week and was sure her course would be what I was looking for. I took photos and kept notes of the processes used throughout the day. Lyn also provided an excellent handout 'suggested starter kit' which I have already bought most of now, and having been inspired by my day with Lyn have started creating and exploring many of the techniques she showed me. Not only was the tutoring excellent, the setting of the workshop and Lyn's hospitality was lovely, her homemade cakes looked beautiful but I was so wrapped up in the art, I forgot to eat any, I don't think I am exaggerating when I say this was the best workshop I've ever been on, I will be back for more. I took my Niece with me as she had been very interested in my home dabbling, and as a complete novice, she had a wonderful time and is now hooked. Thanks, Lyn."

Louise Wood reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

"It was lovely to meet you today and thank you for your calm instruction and guidance throughout the workshop. You were very generous with your knowledge. I love that you gave me choices and advice while we were working. I learned a lot too. It’s alchemy. I love my finished work, it’s definitely going on the wall and not in the loo!"

Olivia Radstock reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

"I have recently spent a wonderful day learning about encaustic art with Lyn Kirkland. I wanted help trying to decide what media I wanted to pursue for my final year Art A level and I now know that Encaustic is the way forward, it has allowed me to be more free and abstract with my final pieces. Lynn showed me various different techniques and styles and was so helpful and encouraging. Her workshop was hands on and gave me real confidence to move forward and create pieces of art myself. A perfect environment to learn new techniques, thank you Lyn for a wonderful day of Encaustic Art."

Francesca Shakespeare reviewed: Bespoke Photo-encaustic workshop

"As an art teacher and practicing artist, I found Lyn’s patient and knowledgable sharing of skills and techniques very generous, helpful and rewarding."

Clive Carpenter reviewed: Bespoke Photo-encaustic workshop

"Booking for two people with no encaustic experience and to maximise learning, we booked a workshop over two consecutive days. Lyn worked with us from the outset to understand what we were looking for. The course was very well planned and took us from the tools required, through the basic skills, into using creative options with alternative media and special art papers. Throughout the course, Lyn took time to ensure that we both understood what we were trying to achieve with new techniques and processes, and was there to assist if we needed additional help. It is hands on from the start and you immediately realise that there is simply no way that remote or You Tube learning could replace the experience of working with an excellent teacher like Lyn. She also encouraged us out of our comfort zones with patience and good humour, helping us explore new options which have sparked some fresh creative thinking. We highly recommend Lyn to anyone interested in learning more about encaustic art."

Jo Teasdale reviewed: Bespoke Photo-encaustic workshop

"Wishing to take my photography in a new direction I hit upon encaustic art as a possible new medium and knew this was something I could really engage with. I booked two days tuition with Lyn having found her details online. How lucky was I. Lyn is a wonderful teacher, enthusiastic, creative and an Encyclopedia of knowledge and experience. Everything we did was tailor made to my needs, every twist and turn of the process was overseen by Lyn as she guided me through the myriad of possibilities and techniques. The two days flew by and I didn’t want to leave the enviable studio that she generously let me loose in. I came away with two pieces of work - one created by painting with pigment and wax, and the other a photographic collage as well as a vision of how I want to progress with this exciting random medium. Thank you Lyn for your patience, kindness and generosity. I am so excited for my future encaustic artwork."

Sam Ivil reviewed: Bespoke Photo-encaustic workshop

"As I previously attended the Introduction to Contemporary Encaustic Wax workshop with Lyn and thoroughly enjoyed it, I wanted continue this medium by trying the Photo-encaustic Workshop. Having previous knowledge of the initial processes it allowed me to concentrate on the different techniques used to produce a piece of artwork using photographs. Lyn contacted me a week before the workshop to go through ideas together to see what I wanted to achieve and helped with suggestions. The day was very relaxed and having the one-to-one attention it made the experience so enjoyable and I went away with the amazing knowledge supplied by Lyn and a fantastic piece of work. I would highly recommend this course and the Introduction to Contemporary Encaustic Wax to a complete beginner to an experienced artist."

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

"Dear Sam, it was so lovely to meet you again, and share even more techniques using encaustic wax. I so enjoyed being able to share in your memories of Venice through your photographs, and feel that you have created a lasting memory of that time in your collaged piece. It has received so much praise on my social media accounts. Well earned. Good luck with your studies and further exploration of encaustic wax. Thank you for the review. X"

sam ivil reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

"Had a fantastic day with Lyn learning different techniques in Encaustic Wax. A full on day but Lyn kept it to my leisurely pace, but covered so much. I explained that I didn't want to create a masterpiece....today... but wanted to learn the fundamentals of this new medium to me. I took photos and kept notes throughout the day. Lyn also provided an excellent 'suggested starter kit' which I'm currently going through and cant wait to start creating. Not only was the tutoring excellent, the setting of the workshop and Lyn's hospitality with her home made cakes and endless cups of tea, have to say the best workshop I've ever been on. Thanks Lyn."

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

"Dear Sam, so pleased that the day met with your expectations, it was great to meet you and share this special medium. Let me know if there is anything you are unsure about once you gather all your equipment and start your own encaustic studio! Good luck ?"

Linda Cope reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

"I had a super day with Lyn, who is great at sharing her considerable knowledge and skills. Workshop was ideal, being in a quaint courtyard setting with plenty of fresh air and `Covid safe. I will definitely go back for a follow up course once had chance to practice what I’ve learnt. Cannot recommend this lady highly enough! Just wish my strict diet didn't prevent me from sampling the home made cake on offer!"

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

"It was lovely to meet you Linda, and share the delights of Encaustic wax. I feel sure that you will enjoy exploring this wonderful medium further, and of course are welcome back for a refresher day anytime. The cake went down very well with my family, who are always thrilled when my students are on diets!!!? Enjoy the rest of your holiday"

Angie. D reviewed: Bespoke Photo-encaustic workshop

"It was my first attempt at Photo Encaustic Art at the one day workshop, with the tuition of Lyn Kirkland, our talented and wonderful teacher, who made the day so relaxed and enjoyable. It was such a unique process. I loved the idea of adding a photo and layering with wax. I loved the textures, coloured pigments and most of all the playfulness of adding your own signature to the end result. I chose a photo of my beloved elderly pet dog. My photo is now so much more interesting and feels more personal to me. My own unique piece of work. Thank you and shall be back to have some more fun!"

Angie D reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

"Dear Lyn It was so lovely meeting you and I absolutely loved the course. I am still on a high and my family could not believe the quality of my art work. You truly are an inspirational teacher and loved your laid back, calming nature, as you made learning a joy. I loved the way you made me feel I could accomplish the tasks, as you gave me confidence in myself, so thank you so much. You also made the most delicious sugar free fruit cake. Yummy! Thank you for a Fabulous, Fun, two days and will look at dates tomorrow for the next course."

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

"Angie, it was a pleasure to meet you and spend the day exploring all the versatile properties of encaustic wax in a safe, and socially distanced space. The painting you have produced is very ‘you’ I feel. Balanced, calming and imbued with your spirituality. Would love to do more with you in the future. Take care"

Faye reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

"I would thoroughly recommend this one day workshop with Lyn! She made me feel very welcome and it was really fascinating to learn more about this ancient art form. The course comes with an extensive list on how to set up your own encaustic studio and lots of tips from Lyn in how to manage the materials. Lyn is clearly very experienced and skilled! She broke down the process into manageable steps, but also gave me enough space to play around with the techniques independently. Her studio is bright and full of inspiration: be it from the many objects/ textures Lyn's collected, her own beautiful art work or the coastal location. I only came to learn about the process, but I was pleasantly surprised to make a painting that I would be happy to hang on the wall! Thanks so much Lyn!"

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

"It was a joy to share encaustic with you Faye. Enjoy your painting, and I hope that you do some more. Thank you for your kind words."

Kate reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

"Thank you Lyn for a most informative and enjoyable day. Considering my friend and I were absolute beginners, I was delighted to end up with such an accomplished finished product. Lyn is patient and flexible whilst covering all the basics, and her enthusiasm shines though it all. She has inspired me to have a try at home. I thoroughly recommend trying one of Lyn's courses."

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

"Dear Kate and Mel, Thank you for your review of the workshop. It was a pleasure to meet you both, and I was seriously impressed with your finished work on the day. Do keep in touch, would love to see more of your encaustic work, Take care Lyn"

Chris Greening reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

"I have a background in geology, the marine environment and am now a potter. I dabble in acrylic paint and mixed media but I have always been intrigued by the concept of encaustic wax. So when I saw Lyn's work and course details I knew I had to treat myself to one of her whole day courses - and what an excellent experience it has been. Lyn's communication throughout the process has been excellent and her introduction to a subject that could possibly be quite daunting was undertaken in a thorough, unambiguous and yet exciting manner as to options and variations available in the subject matter. We worked on preparation of the surfaces, what surfaces result in different effects, alternatives to the normal materials and the suppliers of those materials. We discussed what techniques may lend itself to the influences for the designs. I am very abstract in my approach (can't draw - won't draw) and this technique suits those "real life artistically challenged" amongst us perfectly. I was very pleasantly surprised by the range of effects that are possible with just small variations in materials and through quite a limited palette one could produce a vast array of finishes - including pigmented wax but also found objects, textured paper, images, scratching away at surfaces and different brush techniques. Saying that, Lyn literally has a workshop full of materials - if you can't find what you need, it probably isn't worth trying! It was a really enjoyable day run by a true professional with a passion for her subject matter; it really comes across and her eagerness to get the best results for you. And of course onto the most important thing - the carrot cake - best ever!! I thoroughly recommend you do this course and stay on the Isle of Portland and explore this intriguing landscape which will inspire you in your creativity! It's given me a lot of food for thought as to how I could move my existing practices onwards. Thanks Lyn!"

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

"Chris, that is a most generous review of today. I thoroughly enjoyed it too. So exciting to share encaustic wax with others who are looking to resolve questions, and maybe find new ways and treatments for their existing practice. Keep in touch, I would love to see some finished pots! Oh, and thank you for the pots...I will enjoy working on them. All the best Lyn"

Emma Bradley reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

"I've just spent the most amazing day with Lyn (and my friend Beki!). Painting with hot wax is such good fun and Lyn spent a lot of time showing us the basics and then building up to more advanced processes as the day went on. Texturing, moulding, adding highlights with different materials. She is a great teacher and very giving with her time. 10/10!"

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

"Dear Emma & Beki, it was a pleasure to spend the day with you. I do hope that you use what you have learned in your studies Emma, and please get in touch if you fancy trying photo-Encaustic! Thank you Lyn ?"

Alice reviewed: Bespoke Photo-encaustic workshop

"“I had a great day with Lyn in her studio on a one to one photo encaustic workshop. I learnt about encaustic history and tested a variety of encaustic techniques which has given me a great insight into how I may use this in the future in my work. It was a really interesting day, Lyn’s a great teacher, and it was a lot of fun too”"

Genny L. Blandford reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

""I have just spent a wonderful morning with Lyn in her studio on Portland. Lyn's studio is in a great location and the welcome she gave was so warm and motivating.There was an impressive and unlimited collection of pigments and materials at my disposal. Added to which, Lyn's enthusiasm for encaustic art and her willingness to share her skills, made for a really worthwhile experience. Lyn was intuitive about when I needed her at my side to demonstrate and make suggestions, and when I needed to test out the waxes on my own. Now I have tried encaustic art for the first time, I shall definitely return for another session. Highly recommended!""

Mel Brew reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

"While visiting the UK from New Zealand in June, I enjoyed a two day encaustic workshop with Lyn and it was amazing. Lyn was fabulous at sharing her knowledge and techniques to create an encaustic artwork.  I am a mixed media artist, but had not worked with encaustic wax before. I am now a convert and can not wait to return to my studio and further develop these skills. Lyn made the experience so much fun and we had a lot of laughs along the way. I love her work and she was very happy to teach me many of the techniques she uses. Thanks so much Lyn, for a very special two days in your studio."

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

"Hi Mel, we did have fun, and learnt a lot too. Can’t wait to see your Encaustic pieces. Take care Lyn"

Suzanne S reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

"Hey Lyn, Had a fabulous time and loved working with you!!! Your enthusiasm for encaustic has rubbed off and I can’t wait to get my “studio” up and running. Thanks for sharing all your tips and tricks with me."

Contemporary Encaustic Wax Workshop responded:

"Great to meet you Suzanne, I hope you set up your Studio and get fusing soon!! Take care Lyn"

Hilary & Ali reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

"My daughter and I have recently spent a most enjoyable day with Lyn Kirkland at her Portland workshop learning the technique of inserting photographs, which we supplied, into wax which resulted in fantastic 3d images. Lyn copied our pictures onto special ‘paper’, provided us with three different sized wooden boards and all the wax. Lyn, a lovely, incredibly talented lady, is patient, kind and fun to be with, and as a bonus coffee or tea were served all day. She also makes the most delicious cakes which she shared with us. If you haven’t already tried encaustic work I can thoroughly recommend that you have a go."

Nina Hollington reviewed: Bespoke Contemporary Fine Art Encaustic Wax Workshop.

"As a photographer, I wanted to learn more about embedding my images in wax and exploring ways to create texture. Lyn planned her day course with me meticulously - she was in touch prior to find out exactly what I wanted to learn and made some very helpful suggestions to maximise our time together. On arrival, she had prepared various birch panels for our experimentations and also printed my images on to a variety of papers so I could see what difference that would make in the final piece. We managed to complete four pieces, but it never felt rushed or overwhelming. In fact, Lyn made sure I had all the information as printouts and she spoilt with lunchtime nibbles, which was a lovely bonus! I look forward to future courses with Lyn - she’s a wonderful teacher with a warm, generous personality. Highly recommended."