Icon Painting Technique: A meditative guide to egg tempera painting

The infinite range of imagination and potential found in Byzantine iconography has effected nearly every aspect of my life. In spite of my UN-Orthodox approach, nearly all the images are connected in some way to the classic icon tradition and its inspired doctrine.

I am self taught with 25 years experience, still trying to fit into a mind that was lost about 1,500 years ago. Those first ionographers  were inspired by the stories of Christ waking in and around Jerusalem along with the desert mystics who grasped the beauty of creation and what humanity has been called to. Their and artistic/ prayerful visions and perspectives reflected much of the church doctrines we see in the Orthodox and Catholic Church still today.  I have been given the desire to paint, an ironic surprise to me, and Icon Painting Technique is a condensed version of what I have learned and want to share. The book offers clear explanations about the symbology in iconography, some history, great photos and the egg tempera technique and recipes.

For those who are looking for room to explore and pray, to experiment and grow in love for this wonderful mystical medium, this book is for you. It is short, concise and intense. No frills, no need for them because the art form itself is simple and direct, when lovingly executed it has to be beautiful. The earth pigments are pure beauty, the book just helps you learn to let them dry in their own way in Gods time.

The book by Mary Jane Miller discusses her technique as well as, the history and meaning of icon painting. The book orients icon painters and examines why icons continue to be a spiritual tool. Written from a uniquely Western perspective, this step-by-step practical course brings to life the sacred and beautiful art of egg tempera icon painting. Included is a resource guide, prayers for an iconographer and their ancient rules for iconography written by an anonymous author.

Beginners, intermediate, and advanced iconographers will all find new insights. The icon’s rich symbolism is transmitted throughout the egg tempera technique while one’s life of prayer becomes alive. With in-depth information, invaluable advice, and superb illustrations of each step, this is a most comprehensive guide to the philosophy and practice of icon painting.

Mary Jane Miller’s Books and the Icon Painting Technique: A meditative guide to egg tempera painting

Available on Lulu.com