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

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

“Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, the child’s mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.” The icon depicts either one or seven swords pointing towards Mary's heart. This is one of the few Orthodox Mother of God icons that do not depict her with the Child Jesus. The icon is also known as the Mother of God Softener of Evil Hearts. We will jointly explore the content and theology of the icon's subject during the course, and materials can be purchased from the institute. 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 also note that those under 35 years old receive a 40 percent discount on the price of icon painting courses. The course instruction begins on August 28; accommodation for the preceding night is included in the course price, and any meals on August 27 are paid at normal prices in the Trapeza. Instructor: icon painter Raija Kanninen.

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

To be updated later.