Keith Haring's Encaustic on Wood works from 1983-1984 represent a unique and experimental phase in his artistic career. During this period, Haring continued to explore new mediums and techniques, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to pushing the boundaries of his art. Encaustic painting, an ancient technique involving the use of heated beeswax mixed with colored pigments, allowed Haring to achieve a distinctive texture and depth in his works.

Haring created these pieces by drawing directly onto large sheets of wood at a shop owned by Pedano. He then carved his drawings into the wood using a tool he had brought from New York. This method of working directly onto the wood without pre-drawings or plans highlights Haring's spontaneous and intuitive approach to art. He was interested in the different ways of making marks and the varied experiences required to produce a consistent line, whether through carving, painting, or drawing (Haring) (Haring).

The encaustic technique added a new dimension to Haring's signature style, which was characterized by bold lines and dynamic figures. The texture and layers created by the encaustic medium gave his works a tactile quality that invited viewers to engage with them on a more physical level. This period also saw Haring's continued exploration of themes such as technology, consumerism, and human sexuality, which were prevalent concerns in the early 1980s (Haring).

Haring's Encaustic on Wood works were a significant part of his artistic output during these years and were included in several exhibitions. These works reflect his ongoing experimentation with different materials and his desire to expand the possibilities of his art. By integrating traditional techniques with his contemporary style, Haring was able to create pieces that were both innovative and deeply rooted in the history of art (Haring) (Haring).

Haring's Encaustic on Wood works from 1983-1984 exemplify his ability to blend different artistic traditions and techniques, resulting in a body of work that is both visually striking and conceptually rich. His use of encaustic painting added a unique texture and depth to his already dynamic compositions, further solidifying his place as a key figure in contemporary art.