Frequently Asked Questions
What is Encaustic?
Encaustic is a wax-based paint, made up of filtered beeswax, pigment, and natural tree resin (dried tree sap). Encaustic is an ancient medium, and archeologists have found encaustic artwork on wood and linen that's over 2000 years old, and in good condition. The tree resin raises the melting point of the wax, as well as making the final surface harder, shinier, and more durable.
Will it Melt in my House? (And other information about caring for encaustic)
While some collectors new to encaustic have concerns regarding its fragility, the medium is actually quite strong and archival. Encaustic, like any fine art, is best displayed out of direct sunlight and in a room that is between 50 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 38 degrees Celsius). The melting point of encaustic is approximately 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If your house is this hot, you’ve got a bigger problem than a melting painting!
Just like a cured oil painting, you don’t need to display your encaustic image under glass. However, if the encaustic is thick on the surface, the edges can be fragile and chip if the painting is dropped. Similarly, the surface can be scratched by something hard. (Like any fine art, I don’t recommend digging your fingernails into the surface). You don’t want anything putting pressure on the surface for a long period of time. So, I recommend that if you choose to have your piece framed, that you direct your framer to use a shadowbox style frame rather than a standard frame that wraps around the edges.
If the surface of your painting gets dusty (or has fingerprints – folks do love to touch encaustic) the easiest way to clean it is to take off your rings and buff it with the palm of your hand, just moving your palm back and forth over the surface. Or, you can use a lint-free cloth with a very fine weave. The painting will develop a lovely shine and continues to cure over time.
Why “Eyes Aflame”?
Eyes Aflame LLC is the umbrella name I chose for my business, and my husband and I chose to keep it when we become business partners. That’s why you may see it on statements or in the footer of this website.
I wanted a name that would encompass both my fine art as well as my creativity and artmaking workshops. I’ve always loved that moment when I see someone’s eyes light up, whether they’ve seen a piece of art that compels them, or they’ve had an insight regarding their own creative process. “Eyes Aflame” is the phrase that seemed to capture that moment the best.
What is your shipping Policy?
Reproductions are shipped directly from the photo lab, Bay Photo, making the process more efficient and giving you more options in terms of customization. Original art - including jewelry - is shipped directly from the artist (that’s me). If you order a mix of originals and reproductions, you will receive separate shipments.
I offer flat rate shipping on all original art, and work to find the least expensive shipping option. Bear in mind that encaustic requires significant packing material to cushion it from damage and insulate it from extreme temperature changes during shipping. Most encaustic pieces will require a variation on double-boxing with a crush zone, so shipping prices may be higher than what you are used to in order to cover the additional girth, weight, and cost of packing materials.
Original art orders ship within 7 days of receipt of payment, are insured for the purchase price, and will ship via USPS Priority Mail, UPS Ground, or FedEx Ground.
What is your Policy on Returns/Exchanges/Refunds?
I want you to be happy with the work you purchased - and I know that it can be a risk to order art online. If the work is damaged - or it just doesn't work for you - let me know. I will work to make it right. Please contact me directly via email if there are issues.
Please keep in mind that I am an individual artist, not a multi-billion-dollar international corporation. I simply do not have the margins to be able to pay shipping on any returns, or to refund shipping costs. I also ask that any return requests be made within 30 days of purchase.
How can I keep up with your new work and workshop offerings?
The easiest way to keep up with my new work is to join my mailing list.
Or, you can follow me on social media.
Instagram: @bridgetbentonartist
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