Ancient Byzantine Iconography Course
[residential course]
13th - 19th June 2023
Write an icon of the Mother of God of Tenderness
in the ancient Byzantine style
A 7-day icon-writing course led by Deacon Nikita Andrejev, of the Prosopon School of Iconology
Over the 7 days of this iconography course, students will develop the contemplative practice of icon writing using the ancient art of liquid egg tempera technique.
The teaching of the technical craft of icon writing will be accompanied by the study of the theological world view from which the practice emerged. The practical demonstrations and direction will therefore be framed by a discussion of the symbolic meaning of the iconic forms, of the materials and of the processes involved.
Surrounded by peace and beautiful scenery, this week-long immersion into an ancient form of prayer and the accompanying technique serves as an excellent opportunity to refresh and recreate your soul in prayer and a warm community environment.
“It is always a privilege and a humble experience to be part of an icon painting class; but it is particularly with this class that I learnt the most and had the most change in myself”
The icon currently planned for this course is that of Mary, Mother of God of Tenderness. The template for this icon will be based on the ancient archetype.
Although this icon is slightly more complex than that usually written by beginners, the class will also welcome and take into consideration complete beginners, whilst also offering some flexibility with the icon itself.
The class welcomes experienced icon writers regardless of whether they have painted in the Prosopon style before or not, providing an opportunity to learn or to develop the particular technique and approach of the Prosopon School.
For years Nikita Andreyev apprenticed to his father, Vladislav Andreyev, complimenting this experience with postgraduate theological studies in Paris and the United States.
As a member of the faculty team of the Prosopon School of Iconology, Nikita has contributed to the development of unique teaching methods. The resulting workshop experience enables participants to create and grow through their icon making, developing spiritually through each icon.
Since its founding in the 1980s, the School has rediscovered lost techniques of the ancient art of liquid egg tempera and has helped ignite a renewed interest in icons across the USA and the western world.
For more information about Deacon Nikita Andrejev, please click here.
Theodore House offers a wonderful venue for icon painting. With abundant natural light from the glass roof panels flooding the atrium, this is an inspiring venue for icon painting. The tranquil and beautiful surroundings of the Stonyhurst estate offer an ideally peaceful setting. The first floor gallery, which gives access to the comfortable, en-suite bedrooms, affords a birds-eye view of the workshop below. Guests will also enjoy the comfortable recreational spaces and a beautifully lanscaped garden.
For more information about Theodore House, please click here.
Classes start in the morning of Tuesday 13th June. Residential participants are welcome to arrive from 6pm on Monday 12th June, with dinner being included that evening.
Classes end in the afternoon of Monday 19th June, with departures from approx. 4pm.
Cost
Full board* & lodging, single room: £890 p.p.
Full board* & lodging, twin room: £790 p.p.
Non-residential, full board (lunch and dinner*): £640 p.p.
A non-refundable deposit of £250 will be required upon booking.
Balance of course fees will be due 1 month before the course, and may be spread over several instalments prior to this date.
*Please note: all meals on this course are fish or vegetarian, as is the custom in this work.
“The facilities here were absolutely wonderful. When I walked in I immediately felt blessed to have this space to work in”
“A very professional, spiritual and calm environment: perfect for icon painting”
Please register below (deposit payment required):
Venue: