Icons are painted as windows into Heaven, and therefore strive to portray the Heavenly and invisible realm, rather than earthly, reality.
Icons depict examples of people who love: heroes of the faith who are remembered and whose earthly lives are considered instructive and worthy of imitation.
Therefore it is natural that, as well as depicting them in a stylized “spiritual” way, the
Saints are also depicted as recognizable people, with distinct features. Where are the recognizable women? Women have been guides and examples for generations in their communities and families, why do we not have descriptions of them as Holy Apostles depicted in Icons?
Images of women are noteworthy and necessary to bring balance to our spiritual life and work. Unfortunately, women mystics are often unrecognized for their insights and teaching in the churches, monasteries, or wherever else an icon is found.
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