Everything you need to master the fundamentals of
Byzantine Icon Painting
“ Ian is an inspired methodical teacher able to translate his knowledge and experience to his students with great ease....the modules are absorbing and fascinating as we all walk this ancient, sacred path of Iconography."
Geraldine Burston,
Australia, student on the Academy Course, 2020.
This Course offers you a complete introduction to the basics of Byzantine Icon Painting.
Everything from drawing and geometric design, to colour use, pigments, making gesso, and water gilding.
- This formation is rooted in the Tradition of the Eastern Churches, the wisdom of the Church Fathers, and the glory of Byzantium. However, it is pursued as a living art form that takes you to the very heart of Christ's Presence among us in the Eucharist.
four Modules, each composed of
two parts, each comprising
a number of sessions.
You can see each Module listed below, with what subjects are covered.
In all, over 72 hours of teaching, covering all the basics of Byzantine iconography.
(Subtitles are available in Arabic, French, German, Italian, Malagasy and Spanish.)
The sessions includes prayer, reflection, theology, insights into the spirituality of the icon, as well as techniques and methods.
Teaching
is via recorded demonstrations, while giving commentary and explanation of the theology, spirituality and technical details of what is being shown. It gives practical demonstrations as well as in-depth explanations about the theology and spirituality of the icon. Those who wish simply to learn about iconography rather than develop their own practice of it are very welcome.
are encouraged to develop their skill set slowly, step by step and at their own pace. No level of experience or ability is expected. This is viewed as a formation rather than an education either in ideas or techniques. Being an iconographer is approached as a way of living the Christian life rather than simply a body of theoretical or practical knowledge.
The Arbor Vitae Icon Academy
You are also receive an invitation to join the Arbor Vitae Icon Academy when you purchase a module. This is a world-wide association of iconographers who meet regularly for on-going lectures, tutorials, mutual encouragement and for occasional live sessions. We have a growing resource of online books, linked websites, and our own chat forum for sharing info, examples of our work and just making friends among like minded people.
A Facebook page gives students the opportunity to share insights and resources, as well as giving mutual encouragement.
" Thanks again. I can see you really put your ALL into this class. I don’t know how you managed to teach, answer questions and concentrate and work at the same time. I found it all very helpful, especially when the gold didn’t adhere.... a wonderful learning opportunity. I did the bole yesterday and will gild today when I get some recovery rest. God bless you."
Diane Levy, USA, participant in Module One Pt2, July 2020.
How it works...
BUY a Module
Modules were originally given live via
Zoom. The recordings include some of the live interaction as students asked questions.
Sessions are always available to you so you can revisit them as and when you need, and take them at your own pace.
The Modules are arranged systematically to build up your knowledge of how to paint Byzantine icons in egg tempera step by step. However, you can access them in any order you wish, omitting topics if you feel they are not useful.
You are then part of a global iconography community - The Arbor Vitae Icon Academy
There you can:
get notice of upcoming podcasts, lectures, live demonstrations,
access in person and residential courses,
join a tutorial group
get
email consultations on your icon painting
and
interact with other students from literally around the world, sharing ideas and insights, giving and receiving encouragement, and simply sharing the joy of iconography!
The Modules
New paragraph
Special discount!
Buy all of the Modules for €105!
Simply add all the Modules to your basket, and the discount will be applied before your pay. Simple.
Interested in the Academy Course? I'm here to help!
If you have a burning question, why not email me and I'll do my best to answer you.
Ian Knowles, tutor
