Daryl Harwood

Mixed Media

Creating my encaustic artwork allows me to blend my deep connection to nature with my experiences of living and creating on the road. I create full time, in a mobile studio as I travel the country. Encaustic, an ancient art form using beeswax and damar resin, serves as a perfect medium to capture the fluidity and depth of my surroundings. The natural landscapes I encounter—whether dense forests or tranquil shorelines—inspire the textures and layers in my work. Each piece reflects the dynamic interplay of light and shadow, the shifting colors of the sky, and the intricate patterns found in nature. The process of melting and layering wax mirrors the natural processes of erosion, sedimentation, and growth, creating a tangible link between my art and the environment. Living on the road, I immerse myself in diverse ecosystems, drawing inspiration from the ever-changing scenery. This nomadic lifestyle fosters a sense of freedom and exploration, which I channel into my art. My work often incorporates elements of water, symbolizing both physical and emotional journeys. The fluid, translucent nature of encaustic wax allows me to evoke the movement of water and the sense of calm it brings, creating a meditative quality in my pieces. Through my encaustic artworks, I aim to convey a sense of harmony and interconnectedness with the natural world. Each piece is a testament to the beauty and resilience of nature, a reminder of our intrinsic bond with the earth and the waters that sustain us.