Encaustic painting is an ancient process done with molten, pigmented beeswax.  The resulting effects are luminous color and richly layered work.  It is an ideal complement or stand-alone process for oil painters, printmakers, collagists, sculptors, watercolorists, and other 2-D artists.  In this introduction to the historic process, which includes a brief slide lecture, students explore the medium and learn classic encaustic techniques.  Contemporary processes such as surface embellishment through scraping and incising, collaging, and marking with oil paint, pastel, oil sticks or paint are also introduced.  Students (and teachers) are also provided with information (supply sources, instructions for setting up a studio for encaustic work, safety guidelines, and mounting and framing notes) that will allow them to continue their investigation of this versatile medium.  This program has been organized by the VMFA Office of Statewide Partnerships and is funded, in part, by the Jean Stafford Camp Memorial Fund.