Encaustic painting workshops with Ezshwan Winding

Discover the Art of Encaustic Painting in San Miguel de Allende

If you’re craving a hands-on creative experience during your visit to San Miguel de Allende, this encaustic painting workshop with Ezshwan Winding might just be what you’re looking for. Set in a personal studio, this one-day, 6-hour class offers a chance to learn and work with some of the most experienced encaustic artists in town. For $390 per person, you’ll get personalized guidance, all the materials you need, and a finished piece of art to take home.

What we love about this experience is how intimate and tailored it feels—Ezshwan Winding works closely with each student, helping you develop your own unique encaustic language. Plus, the studio environment is inspiring, full of her own artwork and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages experimentation. The downside? Because the class is quite full of information and techniques, it might be a bit intense if you’re looking for a purely leisure activity. But if you want to dive deep into a fascinating art form, this class is ideal for creative travelers eager to try something new.

This workshop suits those who appreciate personalized instruction, are interested in mixed media, or are simply curious about working with wax and pigments. Artists at any level—from complete beginners to those with some experience—will find value in Ezshwan’s attentive teaching style and the opportunity to craft something meaningful in just one day.

Key Points

• Intimate setting: The workshop takes place in Ezshwan Winding’s private studio, creating a welcoming environment for personalized learning.
• All-inclusive: Materials like encaustic paint, brushes, and heated palettes are provided, making it straightforward to participate without extra costs.
• Focus on individual style: The class emphasizes developing a personal encaustic language, encouraging unique, expressive results.
• Hands-on learning: Expect demonstrations on techniques like glazing, fusing, inscribing, and collage, with plenty of personal guidance.
• Take-home artwork: Participants leave with at least one finished painting, sometimes more, which makes this a very satisfying and practical artistic experience.
• Flexible approach: Ezshwan tailors her guidance based on your requests, whether you want to incorporate photography, texture, or explore traditional methods.

Exploring the Experience in Detail

The Setting and Atmosphere

The workshop is held in Ezshwan Winding’s private artist studio in San Miguel de Allende. This adds a layer of authenticity and intimacy that large classes often lack. As you step into her studio, you’ll notice walls adorned with her own encaustic works and a well-organized setup of painting stations. The space feels warm and inviting, perfect for creative exploration.

Ezshwan begins with a brief introduction and a tour of her encaustic gallery, setting the tone for a personal, inspiring day. This initial orientation helps you understand the history and versatility of encaustic painting, making the technical aspects more meaningful.

What the Workshop Covers

The core of this workshop is a rundown of encaustic techniques, starting with the basics. You’ll learn how to make your own encaustic paint as well as get acquainted with commercial paints and their various uses. Ezshwan explains supports and grounds, which are crucial for a durable and visually appealing piece.

Throughout the day, you’ll see live demonstrations on paint application, fusing, glazing, and inscribing—each technique designed to build layers and texture. The use of gas torches is a highlight; Ezshwan shows how this tool is essential for fusing and moving layers of wax, creating a smooth or textured surface depending on your goals. We loved her explanation of how to develop a personal visual language—the class isn’t just about copying techniques but about finding your expression.

The Creative Process

Ezshwan encourages students to experiment with collage, texture, lines, and layers, often emphasizing how to manipulate these elements to develop a distinctive style. She demonstrates special techniques like inscribing into the wax, creating layers of glazes, and incorporating mixed media. These methods open up a world of possibilities for making artwork that is both layered and rich.

The workshop’s structure allows for ample practice time. You’ll work at your station, trying out different techniques with her guidance. She’s attentive, ensuring you understand each step. As one reviewer mentioned, Ezshwan “tailors the experience to meet specific learning requests,” which demonstrates her flexibility and commitment.

The Result and What You Take Home

By the end of the day, you’ll have completed at least one finished encaustic painting, often more. The satisfaction of leaving with a tangible artwork is a big plus. The printed notes Ezshwan provides help reinforce what you’ve learned, making it easier to continue exploring encaustic on your own later.

We appreciated the focus on developing your own style—this isn’t just a technical class but an invitation to experiment with your creativity. The process can be both relaxing and invigorating, especially as you see your work evolve beneath your hands.

Additional Perks

Included in the price are all materials—from encaustic paints and brushes to carving tools—saving you from extra costs. The studio tour and the chance to see Ezshwan’s own art adds depth to the experience, inspiring you with her personal approach to encaustic art.

The workshop is designed for most travelers, with Ezshwan’s approachable teaching style making techniques accessible. Note that it is a private activity, so your group has her full attention, which enhances the learning experience.

Practicalities and Considerations

• Location: The meeting point is at Bodega AurreraCam. Real a La Estación 2, in San Miguel de Allende’s center so you can easily find and walk to the studio afterward.
• Duration: The class lasts about 6 hours, including breaks, practical for a full day of creative focus.
• Pricing: At $390 per person, it’s a reasonable investment considering all materials, guidance, and a finished artwork. It’s especially appealing for art lovers or those wanting a meaningful souvenir.
• Booking: Since this experience is most often booked 43 days in advance, plan ahead if you want to secure a spot. Cancellation is free if you cancel 24 hours in advance—a good safety net if your schedule shifts.
• Lunch: You’ll need to bring your own lunch or snacks for the midday break—an easy addition to your planning.
• Group Size: The private nature means you won’t be sharing Ezshwan’s attention, making it ideal for personalized instruction.

Authentic Reviews from Participants

Reviewers consistently praise Ezshwan as a great teacher and an artist with warm energy. One mentioned, “She has a very warm and inviting energy,” which makes her studio feel like a welcoming haven for creativity. Another noted, “Ezshwan Winding is a great teacher, artist and guide in this amazing technique,” highlighting her ability to communicate complex techniques clearly.

Participants also value the fun and tailored experiences. One reviewer shared, “She helped me incorporate photography into my encaustic paintings,” showing how flexible her teaching can be. The ability to customize your learning experience means you get more than just a cookie-cutter class—you get a workshop that responds to your interests.

The Sum Up: Who Will Appreciate This Experience?

This encaustic painting workshop offers a rare chance to learn from a talented artist in a cozy, supportive environment. If you’re eager to create your own artwork, develop a personal style, or simply explore a fascinating art form using wax and pigments, this class is perfect. It’s especially suited to travelers who want a deep, guided artistic experience that results in a tangible piece of art to take home.

Art enthusiasts, curious beginners, or experienced painters looking to expand their media palette will find this workshop engaging and rewarding. Ezshwan’s personal guidance ensures you’ll leave not just with a finished painting but with a new understanding of encaustic techniques. The value lies in the quality of instruction, the beauty of the studio, and the lasting impression of creating something uniquely yours.

FAQs

What is included in the price of $390?
All materials such as encaustic paint, brushes, heated palettes, carving tools, printed notes, and a tour of the gallery are included, making it a hassle-free, all-in-one experience.

How long does the workshop last?
The workshop runs approximately 6 hours, including breaks, providing a full day of hands-on learning and creation.

Can beginners participate?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and Ezshwan tailors her guidance to suit different skill levels, making it accessible for newcomers and experienced artists alike.

What should I bring?
You just need to bring your own lunch or snacks for the midday break. All art supplies are provided.

Is this a private or group activity?
It’s a private experience, so only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

How far in advance should I book?
Given that this experience is often booked 43 days ahead, early planning is advised to secure your spot.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled class for a full refund.

Where do I meet?
The meeting point is at Bodega AurreraCam, Real a La Estación 2, in the center of San Miguel de Allende—easy to find and accessible.

If you’re looking for a creative, meaningful activity in San Miguel de Allende that combines expert guidance, personal expression, and a finished artwork, Ezshwan Winding’s encaustic workshop offers a memorable artistic adventure. Whether you’re trying encaustic for the first time or honing your skills, this experience promises a rewarding day of exploration, learning, and beautiful results.