Icon-writing masterclass comes to New York
New Christian Icons, the creative brainchild of renowned icon writer Christine Hales, has just announced an icon-writing masterclass in New York. The retreat, which will take place over three days, will teach guests the basics of the ancient art-from of icon-writing in egg tempera. Held in a stunningly spiritual setting, the course welcomes those who have no previous experience in icon writing.
Students will learn the Byzantine method of using egg tempera and gold leaf gilding on gessoed panels to paint an icon, all while taking in the rich, spiritual experience that combines prayer and painting. Taught by a celebrated artist and iconographer, the class will be packed full of expert hints and tips that individuals can take away and implement into their icon writing going forward.
Christine Hales, founder of New Christian Icons and leader of the retreat, said, “Icon writing has long been considered an introspective way to engage in prayer and painting, and I hope to inspire a whole new generation about how powerful and effective an undertaking this age-old tradition can be.”
Each class will focus, in detail, on egg tempera and gold leaf gilding to really bring icons to life. These historic forms of working are just as relevant now as they were hundreds of years ago, but all too often they are ignored in favor of more modern ways of working. These classes will reiterate the need to go back to these traditional modes of working to make the most of icons and create striking masterpieces.
A five day course condensed into three days, it has been designed for all skill levels. Full support will be offered to students to ensure that they are guided through this process of creating individual expressions of Christianity.
The retreat will take place between 21st and 24th March at Holy Cross Monastery, West Park, NY. Places cost $560, and include two nights’ stay and all meals.
To find out more about the retreat and the New Christian Icons initiative, visit the website: http://www.newchristianicons.com