The mosaic art is actively preserved in Cyprus; old techniques are maintained and new ones are developed. Look for the mosaicists in the villages of the Heartland of Legends, watch them creating modern and traditional works of art and learn this fascinating craft by making your own masterpiece.
Iconography or icon painting is a sacred art that flourishes on the island. Cyprus is the homeland of many prestigious iconographers who continued the long Byzantine tradition such as Titos, Iosif Chouris, Father Kallinikos and so many others.
Icons are an integral part of the Orthodox churches and can be seen on the iconostasis (a wooden divider adorned with icons separating the Sanctuary from the nave of the church). In the center of the iconostasis are the Royal Doors. On the right of these Doors always stands the icon of Jesus Christ and on the left the icon of Panagia (Virgin Mary). On the top of these icons is Dodekaorton, a series of twelve icons representing the Twelve Great Feast Days. Enter in any church you find along your journey in the Heartland of Legends and admire the beautifully carved iconostasis with the meticulous icons and get familiar with the various techniques and styles.
Enrich your experiences by visiting an iconographer’s workshop. Learn step by step the whole procedure; selection of wood (cypress, marine plywood or natural cedar wood), preparation of wood with linen gauze, chalk and chardin glue, drawing the theme by using natural egg-tempera colors and the gold gilding. Icons are not just an object. They are designed to reinforce the theological message. You will find out that the iconographer follows certain rules of composition and each color has a symbolic meaning. Gold symbolizes the munificence of Heaven, Red is the color of blood and thereby signifies life on earth and Blue indicates the infiniteness of the sky and is considered the color of Panagia (Virgin Mary)
Delve into the world of mosaics and icon painting by visiting the workshops of the artists that you can find in the villages of the Heartland of Legends and arrange your lessons to experience these unique forms of art.
