Meet Becky Collins: The Many Faces of EncaustiCamp

Another edition in the continuing series designed to share with you the many faces of one of my favorite places to teach, EncaustiCamp. Held each summer in the Seattle area, this extraordinary retreat not only has captured many a student and teacher's heart, but also become the subject of a book featuring each of the instructors and a few of the camp VIPs. I hope to bounce around between teachers, vendors and former students (or "lifers" as they become affectionately known), throughout the series to give you a taste of the goodness from many perspectives. 

This week we are joined by EncaustiCamp Lifer Becky Collins (Attending EC even once gains you the title of "lifer" as once you've experienced camp you stay connected for life). The story of how Becky's husband surprised her with the trip to EncaustiCamp for their anniversary is a camp favorite. As an artist already, Becky gleaned much inspiration from the experience and returned home ready to move forward with her career. Read on as Becky shares her story...

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Encaustic Abstract by Becky Collins

Where Art Began: Becky Collins has wanted to be an artist for as long as she can remember! Her Aunt was an artist. And when Becky was 4 she painted Cinderella characters on her bedroom walls. When her Aunt was finished Becky told her that she wanted to be just like her when she grew up. And she is!!!! Becky has done something creatively artistic every day since.

The Winding Road: Becky was an award winning Decorative Finisher for 15 years in Cincinnati, Ohio and is still painting furniture and cabinetry. Two years ago she moved to Tryon, North Carolina where she moved her business. Beespoke Studio is in process of moving out of her home into her own studio store front in Landrum SC.

She found Encaustic through a Facebook friend who posted her class photo's. That sparked 6 months of research and play. Her first painting, made for her husband for their 18 year anniversary adorns the counter of their bathroom to this day. But in 2010 before any classes or official training she created Encaustic pieces in her kitchen while her husband was out of town. More research brought her to study with Heidi Franconi-Beal in Paso Robles, California.

Abstract Artwork by Becky Collins

Surprise! In 2012 Becky's Husband Steve surprised her with Encaustic Camp for their 20 year anniversary. Patricia Baldwin Seggebruch called her during dinner and told her the big surprise!! She couldn't stop crying! Her best friend then called to tell Becky that she was also coming with her. Brittany was unable to come in the end but Steve and their 3 kids are Becky's biggest cheerleaders, they believe in her and all the creative outlets she chooses to get involved in.

Leaving Inspired: Becky is a full time artist. She paints modern, abstract very organic work and has gone from painting walls with her faux work to Encaustic with painting cabinetry and furniture when commissioned by clients. Her focus for the past month has been Moving her home studio into a new store front studio. June 27, 2014 Beespoke Studio will have it's grand opening! Becky contributes it all to the breakthroughs she experienced at Encaustic Camp in 2012.

Original Abstract Art by Becky Collins

Looking Back: Her favorite memory of Encaustic Camp was the afternoon the instructors told the stories of their art lives. These stories spoke to her soul and with every instructor's story Becky heard her own and sobbed. The connection that was made that day was life changing and provided her with the courage to "just do it" and she is. For that encouragement she will always be greatful.

Summers Coming! Becky will be studying with Patricia, Michelle and Crystal this year. She can't wait to get off the plane and make more connections with classmates and soak up as much as these wonderful women are willing to share!!