Learn to paint an Eastern Orthodox icon (Archangel Gabriel) with dry pigments and egg tempera.

Links to the videos will be sent after registration.

Archangel Gabriel’s name means 'God is my strength.' One of the two archangels specifically named in the Bible in both the Old and New Testament who is given messages of the highest importance. Gabriel appears to the prophet Daniel to explain his visions (the Old Testament); next to the priest Zechariah to foretell and announce the miraculous birth of John the Baptist and finally to the Virgin Mary to tell her that she would conceive and bear a son.

Make time and space for yourself; let go of tension, thoughts, distractions for a day, and settle your mind and emotions by painting a sacred image.

I invite you to spend this time re-connecting with deeper parts of yourself in the creative process, while learning the ancient art of egg tempera painting.

While the word “icon” means “image” in Greek, an icon is more a symbol that speaks directly through our senses and produces certain responses within.

The uniqueness of this course is that the process of looking at and painting sacred images attempts to calm the mind, still emotions and evoke a meditative state.

The technical part of the course will cover the basic techniques of icon painting: transferring the image and applying gold leaf, mixing egg yolk emulsion, the “little lake” and brush stroke techniques, transparent layering, detailing.
No previous experience required.

You will finish the course with a completed icon.

Materials required: Smooth rigid painting surface (art board or wood panel primed with gesso, 9x12” or 8x10”), (If you have: Imitation gold leaf and adhesive size), 3 watercolour brushes No. 6 (7), 3, 01 (00), dry pigments OR watercolour in pans (not tubes), you could also try Gouache. 1 (2) Egg. Image pattern will be provided.

Supplies can be purchased here:

Pigments only: An introductory set of dry pigments ($25 + shipping)
Brushes only: 3 watercolour brushes No. 6, 3, 00 ($15 + shipping)
Pigments + Brushes (see above, $35 + shipping)