Icon Painting As a Living Tradition

The online journal, Orthodox Arts Journal, has just published an excellent and wide ranging interview with the Russian iconographers Philip Davydov and his wife, Olga Shalamova.  Local iconographers will remember the excellent workshop they led in Calgary several years ago.  Their icons are deeply rooted in the Russian and Byzantine tradition but also have a contemporary freshness and vitality about them.

Christ Appearing to the Myrrh Bearers by Philip Davydov (2013)

In their interview Philip and Olga discuss the training necessary to become an iconographer, their theological understanding of iconography, and the direction that iconography is heading today.  As Philip states:  "...iconography is no more pure craftsmanship or art, but true theology in colors."  Just click on the link above and read the full interview.  You will find it well worth the read.

Nativity of Christ by Olga Shalamova (2013)

We are pleased that Philip has agreed to come to Calgary in early September to teach a special 3 day workshop on true fresco painting.  More details about this workshop will be posted soon.  We are looking forward to the chance to learn more from him.