AH HAA Retreat
Merging of Mediums: Encaustic and Printmaking
July 29th & August 2nd, 2027
Saturday and Sunday
10:00AM - 4:00 PM each day
$1450.00
Join Elise Wagner, maker of Wagner Collagraph Wax and innovator of the Wax Collagraph Printmaking method, for an immersive workshop exploring the intersection of printmaking and encaustic painting. This retreat-style class introduces the wax collagraph process, combining plate-building, monotype printing, and encaustic painting into a layered, expressive approach. Participants will learn to create prints using non-toxic, soy- and honey-based Akua inks and integrate them as foundational layers or collage elements within encaustic artworks.
The course balances structured demonstrations with generous studio time, allowing artists to experiment with color, texture, line, and composition while developing personal imagery. Oil sticks and PanPastels are incorporated to enhance surface and depth. Students will print on both portable mini presses and a large press, gaining practical skills to continue this process in their own studios.
Four days of classroom instruction + one day of uninstructed open studio
Supplies are not included. A supplies list will be sent after registration but feel free to email maggie@ahhaa.org ahead of time to get an idea of what students must bring.
This workshop has a 45 day cancellation policy.
AH HAA TUITION ASSISTANCE AND OTHER DISCOUNTS DO NOT APPLY.
Elise Wagner
ELISE WAGNER is an American artist known for her innovative use of encaustic painting and printmaking techniques, often exploring themes of science, nature, and cartography. Originally from Jersey City, New Jersey, she has called Oregon home since 1986 and resides on its North Coast in Astoria.
Elise’s studio practice explores the convergence of contemporary discovery, nature and the celestial, reflecting her lifelong curiosity about how technology and the environment shape the human experience.
A pioneer in encaustic painting and printmaking, Elise is also the creator of Wagner Collagraph Wax, a specially formulated encaustic paint for wax collagraph printmaking. In Spring of 2025, Wagner Collagraph Wax was featured at the National Art Materials Trade Association (NAMTA) conference in Seattle. In October 2027, Wagner Collagraph Wax will be a vendor at Confluence 2027: Pittsburgh Southern Graphics Council International Conference (SGCI).
Elise has received numerous grants and awards, including the Pollock-Krasner Foundation Grant and TheFord Family Foundation Grant for her contributions to contemporary art. Wagner’s work has been exhibited widely in galleries and museums across the United States and internationally, earning recognition for her fusion of art and scientific imagery.
