Surface & Process

Each original begins as Susan J. Roche’s underwater photograph before being transformed through hand-applied layers of encaustic wax, oil paint, and pastel. Built upon a 1.5-inch cradled wood panel, the translucent wax allows light to gently enter the surface before reflecting back, creating remarkable depth and luminosity. As natural light changes throughout the day, subtle textures and hidden passages gradually emerge, making each viewing a different experience.

About the Work

Thalira gathers water, fabric, and figure into one continuous arc. The body appears suspended within a vast turning current, while the pale cloth circles back upon itself like a tide without beginning or end. Light travels through the layered surface, revealing a work that feels at once powerful, weightless, and quietly complete.