Artist Statement
Michael Psellos, an 11th century Byzantine intellectual wrote:
"I am a most careful viewer of icons: but one icon astounded me with its indescribable beauty, paralyzing my senses like a thunderbolt and vanquishing me of my power of judgement in the matter. Its subject was the Mother of God."
I too have seen icons that have great presence, beauty and grace.
Icons represent a spiritual reality joined with material nature. This is the principle of incarnation and it is because of the incarnation of Christ , that he is present in the world of matter, that he can be represented. An icon represents an historical event or a person who has achieved theosis, or union with God. It is painted (written) by a person who prays while working and practices interior silence. Icons are symbolic and have meanings on many levels.
I often paint (write) icons of The Mother of God, Elousa (Mercy, Tenderness, Lovingkindness). She hold the Christ child in a tender embrace, reminding us of the power and joy of a mother's love.