About
In this course, participants will study and recreate a 12th Century icon of the Annunciation from St Catherine’s Monastery, Mount Sinai.
This icon depicts the Virgin as a standing figure, which offers a rich opportunity to understand the depiction of human anatomy, proportions and garment folds characteristic of Byzantine iconography.
Students will also explore the theological and liturgical context of the image. In ancient and contemporary Orthodox churches, the sanctuary is separated from the nave by an iconostasis—a wall covered with icons. At the center of the iconostasis is a doorway that allows clergy to enter and exit the sanctuary, symbolizing the gateway between humanity and God.
The Annunciation of Mary is often depicted in this context, as Mary is understood as the conduit through whom salvation entered the world. This symbolism serves as the inspiration for this course.
Participants will learn traditional icon-painting techniques, including:
- Gilding with loose-leaf gold
- Painting with egg tempera using natural and semi‑precious pigments
- Building form through a layered method, working from dark to light
This course is suitable for students seeking to develop both their technical skills and their understanding of the spiritual and symbolic language of Byzantine iconography.
Please note that this course focuses exclusively on the figure of the Virgin Mary. A future course will cover the Angel Gabriel, which may be paired with this work to form a diptych.
Key Information
Who is this course for?
All levels of ability and experience are welcome. You must be aged 18 or over to participate in our programmes.
What days do I attend?
Monday – Friday, 7 – 11 September 2026, 10:00 – 16:30
How many students can attend?
14 people
Where will this course take place?
This course will take place at our studios at The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts, 19-22 Charlotte Road, London EC2A 3SG.
What should I bring to class?
Students should all bring:
- Please note there will be a separate charge of £30 for the icon board, which is a specially prepared in a shape suitable for a standing figure. This is payable on the first day of the course.
- Pointed round sable watercolour brushes in sizes 0, 1, 2 and 3. Brands such as Winsor & Newton Series 7, Rosemary & Co’s Series 8 or Raphael Series 8404 are good quality brushes.
- A palette with wells
- A book of 22 or 23.5 carat loose leaf gold. Ensure you are purchasing ‘loose leaf gold’, and not ‘transfer gold’.
- A pan of shell gold. (See example)
- Optional: You may find it useful to bring a notebook and pen to take notes.
All other materials will be provided in the class.
Wear comfortable clothing that you do not mind getting slightly messy. Avoid wearing baggy clothing (especially sleeves), loose jewellery, high heels or open-toed shoes.
FAQs
Do you offer concessions?
Yes, we offer concessions for Seniors/60+, full-time students and people who are unemployed/in receipt of benefits.
Concessions cannot be applied in retrospect.
To receive a concession, please apply via our online form. We will then send you a discount code to use when booking your space.
Terms & Conditions
The School reserves the right to discontinue or suspend a Course up to fourteen (14) calendar days before the advertised start date of the Course. This course requires a minimum number of enrollments to run.
The School may take and use images of you and/or your work for course advertisement and social media purposes.
Our normal terms and conditions apply.
Tutor Biography
Hanna Ward has an MA in Traditional Arts from the School and has completed a four year Diploma Icon and Wall Painting course with Aidan Hart. Hanna has also studied for many years with various masters from Russia, Greece, France, Romania, UK and Finland. Hanna regularly paints commission pieces for churches and private collectors.
