Encaustic is a Greek word meaning “to heat or burn in” (enkaustikos). Encaustic painting is an ancient technique, dating back to the Greeks. Encaustic painting, also known as hot wax painting, involves using heated beeswax to which coloured pigments are added. The liquid wax is then applied to a surface, usually prepared wood. The medium is melted and applied with a brush or any tool the artist wishes to create from. Each layer is then reheated to fuse it to the previous layer.