your magical lens - FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have experience in encaustic painting?
Basic encaustic painting experience is necessary to get the most out of this community, but you don't need to be an expert. If you know how to paint with encaustic and fuse with a heat fun or torch, then you should be at the right level for this course.
The lessons will offer rich, personalized instruction that will challenge you to consider advanced ideas and techniques in encaustic and more. Some of the sessions will focus on other important skills such as creating great photographs, working with mixed media, or finding fresh ways to approach your art making.
What supplies do I need?
The basic encaustic set up includes a pancake griddle or heated palette, encaustic paint and medium, a heat gun or torch, brushes, a few scraping tools, and panels. Optional materials might include watercolor, pastel, oil sticks or pigment sticks, collage materials, and other exciting materials that I'll discuss as we go along.
If you don't have many supplies yet, my customized encaustic sets are a great way to get set up.
>> SAVE THE DATE! I'm doing a live demo on January 9 to discuss the materials and methods of working with photo encaustic. If you haven't already registered for the class, join my interest list to receive the zoom link and the recording afterward.
Do I need a printer?
You'll have more freedom to experiment if you have your own printer, but you can also have your images printed elsewhere. After registration, your welcome email will include more information about this as well as other resources like suggested paper choices, free or inexpensive photo editing software, and links to copyright free images.
How does this course work?
This is a 4-week course that includes a total of 6 hours of online group instruction and discussion. Each session is held live on Zoom, and they all are recorded. A few other activities may be delivered via video, Facebook, or email when that is more appropriate. You'll get a more detailed schedule when you register so you'll know exactly what is coming up.
Throughout the course, there are new activities including photography challenges, technique demonstrations, community calls for sharing your work, and intuitive painting exercises where we all create together in real-time. I'll also share my sources of creative inspiration along the way to keep you motivated.
All assignments, tips, techniques, and inspirations are provided through a combination of real-time meetings via Zoom, videos, emails, and our private Facebook group.
What should I expect after I register?
After enrolling you'll receive a welcome email along with the suggested course materials and links to some of my favorite resources. About a week before your first session, you'll also receive an invitation to the private Facebook group, and the link to join the live sessions via Zoom.
What happens if I miss a live session?
No worries! If you can't make it to a live session, you can always view the recording later. The sessions build on each other and collectively help you evolve as an artist, so try to attend them if you can. The recordings are also available for up to one month after the course ends, so you’ll have plenty o time to review them. A link to the recordings will typically be posted within a few hours after the live event.
Do I need special software to participate?
All live sessions are conducted online using Zoom. This requires a quick and easy download, but you don't need a special account to participate. You'll receive instructions on how to use Zoom when you register for the class. Using a device (i.e.: phone, laptop, tablet) with a high-quality camera is recommended. Email is required since important course information and links to the live calls are sent via email.
Click here to download the free Zoom app in advance to be sure it’s working for you before our first session.
Do I need high speed internet for the course?
You will need a reliable, high speed internet connection to effectively participate in the live Zoom calls.
Can I ask questions and get feedback?
Absolutely! I’ll answer questions during our live session each week. Questions and photos of your work can also be posted on our group's private Facebook page, where you'll benefit from discussions with other artists in the Your Magical Lens community. I'll check posts once a week to answer questions that will help the most people. If you need more individualized help please choose a plan that includes working with me as a mentor.
Do I have to use Facebook?
The private Facebook group is not required, but it's a great way to interact with other artists in our community and share your experiences. Even if you don't want to post your own work, you can still engage in conversations or take a look at what others are posting. It's a great way to get inspired!
What is the cancellation policy?
If after the first session you believe the course is not a good fit, please contact me within 24-hours and I'll provide a full refund (minus the processing fees). After that, no refunds are available. There are no credits for missed sessions since you can always watch the session recording.
Do I have to pay with PayPal?
Even if you don't have a PayPal account you can still pay with a credit card through their web site. If you need other payment options, please contact me.
I prefer one-on-one instruction. Do you offer this online?
Yep! I also offer individualized mentoring sessions.
Should any injuries occur during or as a result of participation in any class or workshop, the registered student agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Linda Robertson and all employees, instructors and volunteers connected with Linda Robertson Arts.