Learn Byzantine Iconography

In 2017 I realised that there are many people who would like to learn Byzantine Iconography, but who either don’t have access to workshops or can’t afford to attend them. Also most of the workshops available are “paint-by-numbers” where students simply trace and copy an icon without actually understanding what they are doing. The idea that appeared in the 20th century that iconographers must only make exact copies of old icons couldn't be further from the actual iconographic tradition of the Church. A study of the historical development of Byzantine Iconography shows a great variety of styles and creativity all within the same Byzantine System of Painting. I started the Byzantine Iconography Video Tutorial Project on Patreon to produce a comprehensive series of tutorials that will teach this Byzantine System of Painting that allows iconographers to create within the tradition of the Church. That is why these tutorials start from the foundation of drawing and composition before progressing to painting with the traditional limited tetrachrome palette.  

There are currently 60 drawing and painting tutorials available with more being added regularly. There are three options for accessing the tutorials. Firstly can be accessed on Patreon with a monthly or annual  pledge. You get 1 month free with annual pledges. Patrons can choose the benefits tier that suits their needs. They also get early access to new tutorials and other benefits.

IYou can also find all the tutorials, as well as Series Collections , and more in my Patreon Shop without a subscription.  It is now also possible to gift a Patreon membership from 1-12 months on any student tier.

Become a Free Member for exclusive content and access to some full tutorials for free!

Note on Udemy: While those who have purchased courses in the past will continue to have lifetime access, they no longer available for purchase since Udemy has moved to a subscription model (resulting in creators losing up to 90% of their earnings). All the same courses (and more) are now available in my Patreon Shop without a subscription.

Testimonials

  • She is very good at explaining the process of creating an icon as well as how one should approach the artistic aspect of the process.

    Michael Hardy

  • This course has been great. Julia Hayes really breaks down every element in an easy-to-understand way. I am feeling more confident in my own understanding and technique.

    Adam Richards

  • I'm loving all of Julia's courses that I took so far. Her teaching is easy and understandable. I'm having much fun and getting better everyday

    Ana Júlia

  • Loving these tutorials! Appropriately paced and well explained directions! Above expectations.

    Elleni Baghos

  • She explains everything, even the small details well! Really a great teacher.

    Heather Delahoussaye

  • Great! REAL art instruction! She goes into the structure and concepts instead of just telling you paint by numbers info. Love this course so far!

    Jessica Woodhouse

  • It is wonderful and a great match for my needs. She gives history and theory as well as teaches the skills all in one shot. Easy to follow. Love it!

    Virginia Schmidt

  • This is amazing, I’m an illustrator, I’ve study in design schools and this course is so good, I love how she explained why Byzantine art is the way it is. Very good teacher.

    Maria Zepol