Kellie McDermott

I have always been fascinated with landscapes, particularly abandoned spaces that over the years have changed to become perennial records of decline. Though the scenes I paint appear frozen in time, they are in a slow, continual state of transformation.
 

It is in these gritty landscapes that I play with light and layout to create tension within the composition. The light source is typically strong and focused with accentuated shadows. I use encaustic to create a surface that is almost sculptural, and utilizing architectural and natural elements is key to my technique, helping me contrast structure and disorder. The process forms organically and unexpectedly, forcing me to adjust and mold the piece based on what happens naturally with each layer of wax that I apply. I cut, carve, add, and subtract until the surface becomes scarred and the texture reflects the same distressed quality as the subject matter. I frequently work with oil and mixed media and apply the same textural qualities to build up and break down the materials.