Isabelle is a contemporary artist, though her preferred medium of encaustic is ancient. In her studio located in the west of Ireland, between Sea and lake, she has rekindled the ancient painting process of Encaustics, an immediate and tactile painting method using molten pigmented beeswax manipulated by blowtorch .
Her process driven practise is a direct expressive response to the physical environment and natural forces she immerses herself on a daily basis.
The naked shores, the dramatic skies, the deep cracks and the ruggedness of the stones of the western seashores.
Education
Isabelle is a professional visual artist with a BA (Hons), originally from La Rochelle in the southwest of France, and currently residing in Ireland.
Her artistic journey began with a foundation in sculpture, drawing, and painting at l’Ecole des Beaux Arts in Poitiers, France. In 2006, she graduated with an honours degree in fine arts in Ireland. Since then, her artistic endeavours have taken her on a dynamic path of national and international exhibitions, showcasing her work in locations such as the USA, Northern Ireland, China, and France.
She is a former member of Artspace in Galway and G126, and currently serve as a board member of The International Encaustic Artists (IEA) organisation which supports the growth and advancement of wax artists internationally and provides opportunities and resources within a global community.
Teaching experience
With over 20 years of extensive experience and active knowledge in facilitating art workshops, Isabelle is an accomplished artist and seasoned mentor. She has led numerous art workshops, organized projects through the Arts Council, and worked as an art teacher within the school system. Since 2013, Isabelle has specialized in Encaustic painting, regularly conducting workshops and art retreats both nationally and internationally, including the renowned International Encaustic Conference in Provincetown, Massachusetts, Mulranny Arts, and Leitrim School of Art in Ireland. Isabelle is also an instructor for the yearly online program “Painting with Fire,” which brings together 27 world-renowned artists to offer encaustic masterclasses globally.
Additionally, she is part of the IEA mentor program, providing art study coaching to artists for their professional development. Her nurturing approach empowers mentees to reach their full potential, making her an ideal mentor for those seeking growth in art, community, and personal development.( Click here for more information about my encaustic painting workshops)
Furthermore, Isabelle has been invited to join the Mastrius Master community, where she conducts monthly mentoring sessions for Emerging Artists. Her focus is on enhancing the artistic voices and professional presence of encaustic artists. You can find more information about her group and its description here.