Carolyn's Statement

For over 25 years, my work has evolved from working as a goldsmith, highlighting the natural beauty of precious gems, employing the elements of composition, design, balance and rhythm on a small scale in jewelry design. My grounding in artwork for the human form led me to explore other diverse art media, particularly sculpture and painting.

Over time, my curiosity about ancient cultures led me to study the techniques of goldsmithing, granulation and encaustics developed by the Etruscans (who lived in what is now Tuscany, Italy). I have applied these techniques to revive abstract painting in encaustic, translating this to capture and celebrate the beauty in nature.

Biography

Carolyn Torrez Ensley was born and raised in the beautiful mountain area of Chama, New Mexico. Her natural creativity has found numerous outlets over the years, beginning as a goldsmith and jeweler for over 25 years and culminating in jewel-toned oil, watercolor and encaustic painting. She has taught encaustic painting techniques in Sedona, Arizona where she now lives, having moved back to the Southwest from the area near where George Washington crossed the Delaware River. This area's close proximity to New York and Philadelphia is widely known as a nourishing climate for creative people including artists, writers, musicians and other artisans. Prior to living there in Pennsylvania, Carolyn and her family have lived in Southern California, Athens, Georgia and Austin, Texas.

Carolyn's paintings and sculptures are owned by collectors internationally and across the United States. Her education includes a Bachelors degree from the University of New Mexico as well as post-graduate work in California and Pennsylvania. She has studied with Ron Dawson, Frank Sardisco, Harriet Hochberg, Bala, Michael Good, Alan Revere, Ann Templeton, Kim English, Joella Jean Mahoney, and Debra Sievers. She is an instructor at the Sedona Art Center, leading workshops in encaustic techniques.

NEW! Find out about private studio lessons, including all materials, room and meals for 4 or 7 days. Student pays for all transportation costs to Sedona.