Russian-Byzantine Icon-Writing
December 13-19, 2025
With the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Gabriel of Montreal and Canada, we are thrilled to share our forthcoming seven-days iconography workshop which will introduce students to the practice and theory of the ancient Christian art of Byzantine icon writing.
As is fitting for the icon’s sacred function, predominantly natural materials are used: wooden panels gessoed with natural ground, gilding by the bole method, egg tempera with ground pigments. The iconographic method of this workshop is characterized by a multi-step process in which the succession of steps is concrete and definite, as in the liturgical services of the Church. Although the striving is for a high artistic level, the focus of the icon writer is nevertheless on personal spiritual discipline and spiritual growth within the teachings of the Orthodox Church.
Because an icon is said to be the "Gospel in color", we welcome students from all levels of artistic competence. This hands-on workshop is for everyone: beginners without artistic experience will create a successful icon while advanced painters will be challenged. Students will receive lectures on iconology and step-by-step instructions, demonstration, and all necessary materials to paint the icon. Beginning students will paint the icon of Archangel Michael. More experienced students, will paint a different Angel (will be announced in class).
TUITION:
$1,100 - includes: instructors' fee, materials cost, meals for 7 days.
OR
$1,450 - includes: instructors' fee, materials cost, meals for 7 days, lodging for 6 nights.
English will be the primary language for lectures and instructions.
The clergy discount is available upon request.
As is fitting for the icon’s sacred function, predominantly natural materials are used: wooden panels gessoed with natural ground, gilding by the bole method, egg tempera with ground pigments. The iconographic method of this workshop is characterized by a multi-step process in which the succession of steps is concrete and definite, as in the liturgical services of the Church. Although the striving is for a high artistic level, the focus of the icon writer is nevertheless on personal spiritual discipline and spiritual growth within the teachings of the Orthodox Church.
Because an icon is said to be the "Gospel in color", we welcome students from all levels of artistic competence. This hands-on workshop is for everyone: beginners without artistic experience will create a successful icon while advanced painters will be challenged. Students will receive lectures on iconology and step-by-step instructions, demonstration, and all necessary materials to paint the icon. Beginning students will paint the icon of Archangel Michael. More experienced students, will paint a different Angel (will be announced in class).
TUITION:
$1,100 - includes: instructors' fee, materials cost, meals for 7 days.
OR
$1,450 - includes: instructors' fee, materials cost, meals for 7 days, lodging for 6 nights.
English will be the primary language for lectures and instructions.
The clergy discount is available upon request.
Location
Casa Iskali Our Lady of Guadalupe Campus
9430 W Golf Rd
Des Plaines, IL 60016
9430 W Golf Rd
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Date & Time
December 13 - 19, 2025
Please welcome our instructors!
Tatiana and Dmitrii Berestov have been instructors of Iconology and Iconography since 2002. Each of them found the Prosopon School following their individual spiritual search around 1996 - Dmitrii began studying at the Prosopon School branch in Russia, while Tatiana began her journey in the United States. They were appointed instructors after their continuous intensive studies. During 2007 - 2010 they worked together on the murals at the Holy Trinity church, in Guatemala, where they got married. Currently they reside in New York State, and work on icon and mural commissions for churches and private individuals. In addition, they teach regularly at the studio in New York City and run multiple workshops around the country and abroad throughout the year.
Tatiana Berestov
Dimitrii Berestov
The icon of Archangel Michael written by Dimitrii. Students will be working on a less complex version of the icon.
Contact Us
The detailed schedule for 7 days will be provided to all registered students.
It is not necessary to bring anything, but you are welcome to bring your own brushes, table easel, table lamp or any other supplies you would like.
It is not necessary to bring anything, but you are welcome to bring your own brushes, table easel, table lamp or any other supplies you would like.
For any questions, please contact Fr. Leontiy Naidzions.
If you would like to support this wonderful event and future iconography related events, please donate here.
May God grant you many healthy years for your generosity!
May God grant you many healthy years for your generosity!