Christine’s beautiful paintings are available here in the Paintings Shop and some are also available from the Define Art Gallery 68 South Palm Ave. Sarasota, Florida
What People Are Saying: “Eyes of Fire by Christine Simoneau Hales is a must-read, whether you are an experienced iconographer, a beginning student, or someone who is simply curious about this Christian art form.
At one and the same time, this book is a touchingly personal testimony of the importance of iconography in the life of a talented Christian artist, an art history lesson, and a treatise regarding some of the most important aspects of ‘what makes an icon an icon.’ Mainly, though, it is a thoughtful and loving theological and philosophical reflection on the transformative power of art and beauty in service to the Spirit.
Personally, I was particularly interested in the author’s discussion about the influence of iconography and spirituality on the works of modern artists as diverse as Kadinsky, Klee, Chagall, Matisse and O’Keefe. Added to that, this is a beautifully presented book with gorgeous illustrations, including a number of breathtaking icons ‘written’ by Christine Hales, herself.” Dahlia Herring
NEXT ONLINE ICON WRITING CLASS, August 20-23, 2024
WE WILL BE USING EGG TEMPERA AND GOLD LEAF GILDING FOR OUR ICON WRITING RETREAT August 20-23, 2024. BEGINNERS AND MORE ADVANCED ARE ALL WELCOME.
See icon writing class page for more details.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!
The Calling of Peter and Andrew. by Duccio
The Term “Icon writing” is often used as a form of speech intended to signify that these painted images are faithfully transcribed Gospel, in visual form. The theology of the icon is based on the Incarnation as pronounced by the Seventh Nicean Ecumenical Council in 787 AD: “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us…” John 1:14 The spiritual discipline of icon writing involves the slow, patient work of prayer, observation, discipline, and knowledge of the teachings of the church and the lives of the saints.
This Four Day Class will take inspiration from Byzantine Icons, and the painting of the calling of Peter and Andrew. This online retreat is a Spiritual Journey inviting us to explore issues related to faith and spirituality, cultural identity, tradition, and community within the icon writing process of prayer and painting. This class will focus on combining prayer and Icon painting using egg tempera paints and gold leaf gilding.
DAILY ONLINE SESSIONS: Tuesday- Friday mornings, 10:00Am – 11:30 AM, and Tuesday through Friday afternoons 2:00PM- 3:30PM. EST
All levels of ability and experience are welcome. Beginners are welcome as well as intermediate level iconographers. Please let Christine know if you are a beginner and need more guidance before the class begins. There’s always more to learn! Beginners and advanced students have much to offer each other in this creative, prayerful learning environment. Writing Icons is a spiritual journey as well as an artistic discipline. Each Icon that we write teaches each of us to deepen our faith and improve our skills.
MATERIALS: A Beginner’s materials list is available under the course description at: online.iconwritingclasses.com also on this website on the Students Resources Page.
NEW IN PERSON ICON RETREAT : MARCH 18-21, 2025. CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER, SARASOTA, FLORIDA
Save the Date!! March 18-21, 2025, a four day Lenten icon writing retreat at Church of the Redeemer in Sarasota Florida where we will be painting a Byzantine angel icon. You will learn how to paint an icon using egg tempera paints and use gold leaf gilding while praying and painting! More details to follow!
ONCE A MONTH CHRISTINE SENDS OUT A NEWSLETTER WITH UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS, CLASSES, AND MORE. SIGN UP BELOW! We respect your time and privacy!
BELOW ARE BLOG POSTS FROM MY NEWSLETTERS THAT HAVE HELPUL INFORMATION FOR ICONOGRAPHERS AND EVERYONE WHO JUST LOVES ICONS!
