Tapestry of the Soul - Show featuring Sandra Alderman

The Imperfecta Gallery is proud to present Tapestry of Soul. On view from August 6 to 29, 2026, this fine art exhibition presents the latest collection by Sandra Alderman.
As the artist explains: "Moving from the east coast to the west in the summer of COVID, Tapestry of Soul started weaving itself together organically as I unpacked what was important enough to bring. Using the ancient art form of encaustic, a medium of beeswax and tree sap, the pieces began to take shape as I leaned into what is at the core of me - country, community, climate and care for all people."
This body of work is a personal inventory of the artist's heart, a connection of materials and thought. Alderman used the act of making as a healing tool to navigate these difficult times, and to tell a story about what is. As viewers contemplate her work, the artist asks a simple question: "What is in your weave?"
Sandra Alderman's handmade medium (or paint) consists of beeswax, damar resin (tree sap) and pigments which she fuses with a blow torch on a hard wood surface. As Sandra shares: "It is a fascinating process with an intoxicating smell as the beeswax melts on my pallet. I am drawn to texture and the use of discarded bits of metal and paper to express my creative vision."
The show debuts on August 6, with an Opening Reception from 5 to 8pm.
Gallery Opening Hours: Wednesday to Saturday, 11am to 5pm – EXCEPT first Wednesdays (closed) and first Thursdays (open 5-8pm only).
The gallery is located at 809 NW Flanders st, Portland OR.
About the artist
Sandra Alderman is an award winning encaustic and mixed media artist living on the outskirts of Portland since 2020. Embracing the Pacific Northwest and its incredible beauty, Sandra and her husband live with 3 cats, 4 crows, and multiple squirrels and birds which have all become part of their family. Her natural surroundings have a deep influence on her creative spirit, as did her experiences living in diverse states and countries -- experiences that deepened her love for new places and diverse people.
Sandra's main artistic focus is in the ancient art of encaustic, which dates back to 5th century BC.
About Imperfecta Art & Design Gallery
imperfecta is an art & design gallery focused on elevating the work and voices of women artists and minority creatives. http://www.imperfecta.xyz