Artist Statement

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As an artist, I am deeply inspired by the natural world. My work is a reflection of this connection, capturing the beauty, detail, and wonder of nature in a way that feels both familiar and new. Working with encaustic (an ancient art form of painting with melted wax and pigment) allows me to build layers of wax, papers, inks and natural elements to create surfaces rich with depth and dimension. The process itself is both intentional and unpredictable. My work is a celebration of the landscapes and wildlife that surround us, honoring their presence through a medium that, like nature itself, is dynamic, layered, and full of surprises. 

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 About the artist:

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 Joy Burkinshaw is an artist and educator who grew up in the Hinton and Jasper area, enjoying an abundance of outdoor activities, particularly backcountry camping and skiing. Joy left the mountains to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts and stayed in the city for many years, earning a second degree in Education and eventually starting a family. The mountains called her home and she has now built a life with her family in Brule, Alberta, with the forest, mountains and river just outside her door. Having worked at the AGA as a gallery educator and also as a High School Art teacher, Joy has been able to explore a variety of mediums and share her passion for the Arts with many students and colleagues. Working out of her home studio, she has developed a true love of encaustics but continues to dabble in other media when inspiration strikes.

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