How to Paint Orthodox Icons
Orthodox icons have had a rich history in inspiring the imagination of devout believers throughout the centuries. Prized by many collectors, these artifacts can fetch high prices among dealers. If you do not have that level of disposable income and yet want to have and icon or two around your home to enjoy. This article will help you in the steps to creating your own Orthodox icon.
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Things You'll Need
- An icon to emulate
- Wood panel
- Paint of your choice
- Brushes
- Pencil
- Tracing paper
Instructions
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Find an icon one you wish to emulate. With different subjects traditionally found on icons, such as Christ, saints or angels, you are sure to find one that inspires you.
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Once you have chosen the icon, find a surface on which to paint your icon. Wood panel is traditional, and an older piece of board is ideal in order to give it that weathered look.
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Take a piece of tracing paper and trace the lines of the icon.
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Turn the paper over and trace the lines on the reversed side.
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Take the tracing paper with the image and lay it on the board and trace over the icon once more. You will find that when you remove the paper, it will leave the lines of the icon on the board.
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Now, paint your image. Egg tempera is often the preferred medium however; some artists prefer oil or acrylic paint. The type of paint you use will determine whether or not you will use certain techniques to give the icon the appearance of being aged or weathered. If you like a weathered look, it may not be best to use water-based paint. Once you are finished, let it dry.
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Once it is dry there are techniques that you can use to give it a more weathered look. Set the painted board on a flat surface. Brew some black tea or dark roast coffee. Take the stain and gently streak the surface of the icon with a brush. Allow the dark stain to seep into the cracks of the wood. Once you have streaked the piece, take a dry cloth and gently remove the excess. This will allow the colors to be tinted slightly without causing the illustration to look too artificial. Repeat this step as long as it takes to get the desired results. Once completed, let it dry.
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Once the icon is dry, find a place to hang it and get inspired every time you see it.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not afraid of being creative; you can use colors different than that of the icon you are emulating.
If you use oil- or lacquer-based paints, make sure you have proper ventilation
Resources
- Photo Credit Encaustic painting on Wood, Mid-6th century, St. Catherine's Monastery, Sinai
