Russian Iconography: 1,000 Years of Tradition
Interactive and Beautifully Illustrated Presentation
Traditional Russian icon painting is truly one of the great artistic movements in the history of the world and has been a living and evolving art form for more than 1,000 years. This illustrated presentation by Marina Forbes deals with the spiritual and secular significance of Russian religious art from the 10th century to the present day. Icon making involves the painting of specifically stylized religious images on wood using traditional natural materials and techniques which are determined by longstanding conventions which serve to shape the art form. Russian icons reveal a deep inner spirituality, incomparably matched by an intrinsic rhythm of line and harmony of coloring. Using a slide show and numerous exhibits, including examples of her own work, Forbes will examine the history of icon painting in Russia and will discuss the unique multiple nature of the icon as a sacred object, a product of an artistic tradition, a work of art with its own inherent aesthetic value, and a major example of our world cultural heritage. Anyone who has personal icons may bring them for examination and comment.