Washaway Beach: A Story of Renewal Once known as Washaway Beach, this stretch of coastline was considered one of the fastest-eroding beaches in the world. Today, it is growing and thriving—a rare story of hope and renewal. This photo series was created using encaustic photography, a process that layers images with wax and resin to add depth and texture. In each piece, the beach itself is physically present—infused with sand, sea glass, seashells, and seagull feathers, all sealed beneath six layers of wax and resin. The resulting effect evokes miniature tide pools, each image shimmering with life and memory. The series focuses on the resilient plant life emerging along the Pacific Northwest coastline—plants that play a vital role in restoring and stabilizing dunes, protecting this fragile ecosystem from the forces that threaten it. Rising sea levels, intensified storms, and relentless erosion continue to endanger beaches like this one. But these hardy plants—and the people working to protect them—are helping to ensure a future for this place. This collection is dedicated to the preservation and reclamation of this unique and beautiful beach. It also honors the volunteers and organizations whose tireless efforts have helped turn the tide. All photographs were taken this past spring using a Sony a7ii camera with a Sigma 60mm f2.8 lens. To learn more about the incredible story of how Washaway Beach was saved, visit: Washaway Beach – Seattle Times
