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exhibiting artists
Ken Arnold
Roger Beattie
Kathrin Burleson
Mary Anne Carley
Dennis Di Vicenzo
Lorna Effler
Paul Fromberg
Susan Goff
Janice Holman
Moses Hoskins
Ann Kim
Judy Gibson King
Audrey Lee
Mary Mayer
Nicole Maynard
Judith McManis
Zachary Roesemann
Claudia Smith
Patricia Smith
Kathy Thaden
Susan Tilt
Barbi Tinder
Vanessa Wells
Jeff Wunrow
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Mother of Tenderness (Yaroslavl) |
Probably no icon is as beloved as the Mother of Tenderness. Several great models survive from both the Byzantine and Russian Orthodox traditions, all focused on the love of mother and child. This particular icon emphasizes the physical intimacy and tenderness between Mary and Jesus; nevertheless, the scroll in Christ’s hand reminds us that this is not an ordinary child, but the Incarnation of the Divine Wisdom. I began writing icons in 2003, in some hesitation and confusion. A scholar by inclination and professional singer by training and choice, I was called to iconography specifically and insistently, and much against my better judgment. But God as always knows best, and I am thankful to have been led to a calling I find full of wonder and peace. I am deeply grateful to Father John Walsted of New York for taking me on as a student and teaching me so much. I "write" icons (as the process is called) using traditional techniques and materials. The combination of natural elements—animal, mineral and vegetable—is purposeful, uniting creation in the icon to glorify God. Also as is traditional, I model my icons on the ancient originals, those images that the church has over the centuries accepted and revered as “windows on heaven.”Community: Brattleboro, VT |