NADIA
Nadia Alenov is an encaustic photographer based in St. Paul, Minnesota, with a background in both encaustic painting and photography. A graduate of the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, Nadia first encountered encaustics while living in Russia—a fascination that has remained strong and enduring. With over 27 years of experience as a photographic artist, she began integrating encaustics into her work in 2006.
Nadia’s work merges classical encaustic techniques with photographic imagery, creating a unique synergy that enhances the beauty and depth of both forms. Her current body of work reflects her deep connection to the stark, serene winter landscapes of her Midwestern upbringing. Inspired by the endless Minnesota winters, she ventures through deep snow and sub-zero temperatures to capture the simplified, tranquil beauty of snow-covered scenes.
Painting over her photographs with wax medium allows Nadia to immerse herself fully in an image. Techniques like melting, dry brushing, and carving enable her to explore and highlight the beauty, emotion, and textural properties of the land and its seasons. Encaustics not only preserve the intrinsic qualities of her images but also elevate them to a state of timelessness, enriching the overall experience of her work.
