Biography

Elise Wagner is an American artist known for her innovative use of encaustic painting and printmaking techniques, often exploring themes of science, nature, and cartography. Originally from Jersey City, New Jersey, she has called Oregon home since 1986 and resides on its North Coast in Astoria.

Elise’s studio practice explores the convergence of contemporary discovery, nature, and the celestial, reflecting her lifelong curiosity about how technology and the environment shape the human experience.

A pioneer in encaustic painting and printmaking, Elise is also the creator of Wagner Collagraph Wax, a specially formulated encaustic paint for wax collagraph printmaking. The product, was recently approved by the Arts & Crafts Materials Institute (ACMI) and is attaining distribution. In Spring of 2025, Wagner Collagraph Wax, was launched at the National Art Materials Trade Association (NAMTA) conference in Seattle.

For nearly three decades, Elise has taught workshops and presented internationally, sharing her passion for this medium. She has received numerous grants and awards, including the Pollock-Krasner Foundation Grant and TheFord Family Foundation Grant for her contributions to contemporary art. Wagner’s work has been exhibited widely in galleries and museums across the United States and internationally, earning recognition for her fusion of art and scientific imagery.