Icon Painting Advanced Course: Seven Sorrows of the Mother of God 8/2026

The iconography of the subject to be painted is based on Saint Simeon's prophecy (Luke 2:34–35)

“Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, the mother of the child: ”This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed— and a sword will pierce your own soul too—so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed.” The icon depicts either one or seven swords pointed at Mary's heart. This is one of the few Orthodox icons of the Theotokos that does not portray her with the Christ Child. The icon is also known as the Theotokos Softener of Evil Hearts. We will jointly explore the content and theology of the icon theme during the course, and materials can be purchased from the college. The course is best suited for those who master the basics of icon painting and tempera technique and have already painted a few icons. Please note that those under 35 years old also receive a 40 percent discount on icon painting course prices. Course instruction begins on August 28th; accommodation for the preceding night is included in the course price, and any meals on August 27th are paid at Trapesa at normal prices. Instructor: icon painter Raija Kanninen. The language of instruction is Finnish.

The Epassi mobile application can be used as a payment method for this course.

To be updated later.