Franciscan spirituality runs deep in New Mexico. Sentimentality aside; who was this guy? What is an icon and why paint one? We will cover this and a brief history of icon painting. The nature of the work is faith-based. ‘Writing’ an icon is a prayerful act, and the purpose: to encourage prayer. We will study the life of the saint as we complete an icon of Francis, getting to know him in an attempt to open the window to the heavenly realm. We will study the theology of an icon and the techniques (preparing, painting and preserving the finished work). Traditionally, icons were ‘written’ in egg tempera but we will work in acrylic paint. Our style, in a short week workshop, will be a Russian-Byzantine overlap. Students will also have a limited experience ‘gilding’, using patent gold leaf in the halo. Halos indicate holiness in an orb of light. Candles, incense and inspirational music will enhance our workspace. Time permitting, based on our progress, we may take a visit to see local icons. Painting experience is helpful, but students with no experience are also welcome. Students may bring their own supplies as a supplement, but all needed supplies will be provided. So come, try something different!
Located two miles from the main campus, Casa del Sol is a retreat house at Ghost Ranch dedicated to deeper spiritual contemplation. In 2013, many workshops which are conducive to small group work and contemplative space, including this one, are being held at Casa del Sol. These workshops are designated with the sun symbol beside the title throughout workshop description pages.
Instructor(s)
Iconographer and artist, 4-year protégé of world-renowned master iconographer Br. Robert Lentz, Lewis Williams has been creating art for over 30 years. (“How could that be, he’s so young?” you’ll ask). He earned his BFA in painting from N. Arizona University. 1983, and an MFA in painting from Utah St. University, 1991. His art interests are wide and varied in all paint and drawing media, printmaking, sculpture and ceramics. His work has been shown at The Brigham City Art Museum, Utah, the JHS Gallery, Taos, NM, the Living Circle, Chicago and more. His icons are in many private and church collections. Reproductions of his work are available for viewing and purchase at trinitystores.com and bridgebuilding.com.
Need more info? Call us at (505) 685 – 4333 ext 4152
Three ways to register:
- Download printable registration form and mail to: Ghost Ranch Registrar, HC77 Box 11, Abiquiu, NM 87510. OR scan and email your completed form to: [email protected]
- Register by telephone at 877-804-4678, extension 4152 or 4155 — available Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. – 4:45 p.m. MST.
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