My interview with Iconographer Brenda J. Fox

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     When I was a little girl, religious icons not only fascinated me, but in a way, frightened me. I didn’t understand the meanings behind the simple two dimensional images.
     Now that I am a little older, I look upon icons much differently.  I realize they are alive with connecting us to the story behind the image they portray.
     The definition of Icon is, “IMAGE WRITING.” Icons are said to be written, not painted and the entire process in creating one is a form of prayer.
     I found it interesting that St. Luke the Evangelist was the first Iconographer.  In many icons, the saints hold a scroll that quotes their own words or a scriptural quote which highlights some outstanding feature of their life and struggle. One example is St. Monica, whose successful labor of prayer of the conversion of her son St. Augustine is summarized in the quote from the Psalms: “In my distress I called unto the Lord, and He heard me.”
 

According to local teacher and Iconographer, Brenda J. Fox, the art of creating an icon can be accomplished without any former experience in art.  I recently spoke with Brenda about her love of this rich and meaningful art form. The first question I asked Brenda is what got her interested in iconography? She said, “Iconography found me.” It was in an art history class where Brenda first saw icons.  She later took a week long vacation where she spent time at an icon workshop learning and participating. Her teacher and now Mentor, Peter Pearson was surprised at Brenda’s talent with writing icons.  He encouraged her to move forward in her journey and Brenda eventually began teaching her own iconography workshops.  In addition to an Iconographer, Brenda is also an Art Therapist.  Her icon workshops incorporate the Jesus Prayer that monks and priests pray in addition to prayerful music like Gregorian Chant music.  It’s a very spiritually enriching and rewarding experience. 
     Just a couple of weeks ago, Brenda and I discussed a plan for an icon workshop here at Breath of Life Retreat House.  We worked out the details and I am excited to announce the date for her workshop will be this coming July 19 – 21, 2013.  The class is limited to twelve students.  You will find more information here.  http://www.arizonachristianretreat.com/Iconography_Workshop.php
 


If there is enough interest and the July date fills up quickly, we will work on adding another workshop date.

 

 

     If you are looking to get away, relax and retreat in the beautiful mountain town of Pine, Arizona, Brenda’s Icon Workshop will give you a  peaceful environment to learn how to write an icon.  Brenda’s happy personality will encourage and uplift you.
    If you have a group from your church who would be interested in the workshop, but you need funds to make it happen, we have an easy fundraising opportunity for you to raise money for individuals or for your whole group.
Click Here for more info or contact Candy at calligraph@aol.com to learn more.

 

Reminder: I have recently recorded my book and it is available on Audible.com
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Narrated and Written by Candy Marie Bridges

 

 

 Have a happy and blessed Easter!


 

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