How a Byzantine Icon Is Made

Writing the Divine - How a Byzantine Icon Is Made

Writing the Divine follows the creation of a sacred Byzantine icon from its very beginning - preparing the icon board, drawing and gilding, and finally writing the icon. Iconography is more than the making of an image.

Traditionally, an icon is said to be “written” rather than simply painted; a slow and contemplative process in which materials, craftsmanship, symbolism and prayer come together.

This video follows that journey in three parts:

PART A — Making the Icon Board (0:00)

The process begins with the physical foundation of the icon: preparing and making the board that will receive the sacred image.

PART B — Drawing & Gilding the Icon (3:50)

The image begins to emerge through drawing and the application of gold, preparing the icon for the layers that follow.

PART C — Writing the Icon (7:10)

The final stage follows the writing of the icon itself, as colour, form and sacred tradition come together to reveal the finished work.

Writing the Divine is an invitation to witness not only how a Byzantine icon is made, but the patience, attention and devotion embodied in this ancient sacred art.

For those interested in sacred iconography, traditional icon writing, gilding, religious art and the techniques behind the creation of an icon, I hope this film offers a meaningful glimpse into the process.