I have been writing icons since the spring of 2013 and it has become a joy-filled, relaxing, and challenging practice for me – one in which I’m constantly learning and growing!
Each of these icons was written as a prayer and meditation in acrylic paint on a wooden board.
I teach classes locally in Northern Virginia once or twice each year. To read what students have said about the classes and to see their prayer-filled work, scroll down.
For more information please send an email. Beginners are always welcome!
“The icon class has been totally wonderful, requires full commitment to complete, but is worth every moment. Annabelle is the best instructor.”
– Joel
“What I enjoy about painting icons is the peaceful prayer time. We pray before painting that “every brushstroke might become a prayer” to God. It is a quiet, meditative time for me to be with the Lord. Every time I paint an icon, I am reminded to trust the process. Mistakes are fixable, and everything turns out beautiful in the end. This is the same as our walk with the Lord. Painting reminds me to look up and trust in Jesus. He can make anything beautiful. Annabelle is always willing to offer help and advice for everyone’s icons and accomplishes this in such a kind and supportive way.”
– Maryclare
“After the rush of the week, I have enjoyed the calmness in sitting with the icon and patiently watching and waiting as it grows each week. It’s easy to let other demands impinge on time with the icon. Fortunately, it waits patiently to be picked up and start again from there. I would really like to continue this practice. I’ve enjoyed the camaraderie of the group as much as I have enjoyed writing/painting the icons. I feel very fortunate to have this uncommon opportunity to write/paint an icon in such an easygoing setting. It sets the stage for the calmness found in viewing and working on the icon. Thank you for all you have shared with our group!”
– Sara
“I really liked the creative process within the parameters of this ancient art form. Even though we all used the same initial stencil, each of us, as individuals, was allowed to paint/create/experiment with techniques, while still honoring the methodology of icon painting, the symbols, prayers and the meditative practices utilized. Whenever I felt I had made a mistake, I was told “it is fixable!” And IT WAS! Every time!”
– Kathy J-S.
“The reason I said ‘yes’ to the icon class was because I enjoy being creative as a spiritual practice and I’ve always found icons to be beautiful works of art. In the midst of participating in the class, I realized that I didn’t have any idea just how detailed these pieces are. I didn’t realize the work and excitement and frustrations and prayers that really go into these expressions of one’s faith. As someone who is trying, every day, to be less of a perfectionist, this process really helped me see that there is beauty in every paint stroke, and even if something looks wonky that doesn’t make it less Holy. Annabelle was a knowledgeable, patient, and kind teacher who added humor and grace throughout the entire process. I am thankful for this spiritual practice and look forward to creating more icons in the future.”
– Alyssa
“We all start with the same materials… the board, the pattern, tracing paper, brushes and paint. But as we progress, each painting becomes a unique creation. Annabelle patiently guides you through the process, helping with suggestions and encouragement. The group of painters, though different each time, are friendly and supportive, and we have a great time. I would encourage anyone to give it a try… you might surprise yourself.”
– Kathy S.
Journeying Together 