I am a self-taught artist and I use a hot metal tool to create realistic woodburnings. Also known as pyrography or "writing with fire", I burn images onto a piece of wood by hand. I use a simple craft woodburning kit that's available at most craft stores.
Oftentimes, I'll burn the subject over and over, countless times to build up the deep, rich tones within the wood. The large, black backgrounds are also burned and take many hours to complete. Colors are often applied after the burning is finished. I love using colored pencils for subtle color, and acrylic paint gives the burning a more vivid color. Each burning takes between 8 and 40 hours to burn, depending on the size.
In addition to creating art, I also love teaching and sharing my love for woodburning with others. I give tips and ideas for other artists through Facebook and I'm also creating several instructional DVDs as well.
More info: minisapyrography.com | Facebook
Woodburning of an owl in flight
Woodburning of a train
Original image credits: Matthew Malkiewicz
Woodburning a portrait, step-by-step
Woodburning of a standing grizzly bear
Woodburning of a bison from Yellowstone National Park
Woodburning of cowboy boots, hat and postcard at the Glenwood Hot Springs
Woodburning with acrylic paint
Woodburning of a yellow rose using colored pencils over burning
