About
Prayerfully paint an Angelic Face from the icon of the Holy Trinity as depicted by the great contemporary iconographer saint, hesychast and theologian St Sophrony the Athonite (+1993). St Sophrony founded a monastery in Essex in 1959 which has become one of the most significant Orthodox Christian monasteries in the world. His iconographic legacy is also profound. Before becoming a monk on Mount Athos in his late 20’s he was an accomplished painter in Paris, and later dedicated himself to iconography after decades of prayer and monastic life. Learn from this inspired saint through the study of his painting methodology, his theological writings and contemplation of one of the holiest iconographic types.
The course will have a contemplative approach, focus on attention to detail and integrity in every aspect of traditional icon painting, with emphasis on exploration of the great depths of the Holy Trinity icon and its specific expression, theology and spiritual meaning in St Sophrony’s work. Be illumined, inspired and edified by his artistic journey and iconographic practice, and all it can teach the contemporary icon painter, theologian and artist.
Throughout the course, practical teaching will be intertwined with understanding the depths of meaning, aesthetics and symbolism of this icon, and how these interrelate with St Sophrony’s theological writings.
Image: Mural of The Holy Trinity, by St Sophrony
Key Information
Who is this course for?
All levels of experience will be enriched and those searching for a depth of approach rooted in meaning and prayer. You must be aged 18 or over to participate in our programmes.
What days/times do I attend?
Monday – Friday, 5 – 9 October 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:
- TBC
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
Dr Christabel Helena Anderson is an iconographer, writer, teacher and doctoral research supervisor in Orthodox Christian iconography at The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts, where she also teaches icon painting on the MA programme. In her artistic practice she creates traditional panel icons in egg tempera and gold leaf, as well as manuscript illumination and miniature painting on vellum. Christabel’s PhD research was on the subject of new icon design within holy Tradition and the iconography and theology of St Sophrony the Athonite. She has an MA (with distinction) in traditional artistic practice, is a specialist in Orthodox iconology, the history and development of Christian iconography and theology, early Christian art in Britain and Ireland, arts and architecture of the Near and Middle East, the history and practice of manuscript illumination, gilding techniques and historic paint making methods. She exhibits regularly and her work, artistic and written, has been featured in many publications.
