In a 10-day workshop learn how to paint in egg tempera, the ancient technique used in iconography for centuries. During the course you will learn the whole procedure of painting a Byzantine icon, from the initial drawing and gilding with genuine gold leaf, to the final writing of the saint’s name. The workshop is appropriate for beginner, intermediate or advanced level, students of each group will be divided according to their skill level.

The instuctor: That should be me… Arhontia karakosta, talented artist, iconographer, lover of history and culture heritage, teaches icon painting in egg tempera – the ancient technique used in iconography for centuries. I studied at the Fine Art Accademy of Bologna, Italy. During my studies I was captivated by the monumental art developed during Byzantine era as well as the technique of fresco and egg tempera. I live and work in Athens. My works of art can be found in several churches and private collections.

The location: Milos, one of the most beautiful islands of Mediterranean Sea, where you can enjoy relaxed moments combined with adventure in the amazing open cave of Sykia which reveals a secret beach, and in Kleftiko the famous hideout of pirates. Choose the best spots for swimming in the crystal clear blue-green waters of the island, taste traditional greek cuisine and local wines.

The inspiration: We will visit the Catacombs snd the Byzantine Church of the Holy Trinity, established in 842 AD. The church houses the Ecclesiastical Museum of Milos, which displays a collection of traditional art from Milos, like religious icons, wood carvings and paintings by Cretan painters Emmanuel and Antonios Skordilis. The Catacombs of Milos, dating from the 1st – 5th century, are among the three most important of the 74 discovered worldwide, together with the catacombs of Rome and the Holy Land. It is possible that the Catacombs of Milos are older than the ones of Rome.

Languages spoken: English, Italian and Greek (of course)

We don’t provide accomodation. Each participant has to make his own reservations. The workshop location is at Art-Milos gallery in Plaka the capital of the island, 4km from the port Adamas, 8km from the airport (we can arrange to pick you up uppon arrival). There are several sites you can check for room reservations. ( https://milostravel.com , https://www.trivago.gr/ , https://www.booking.com )

All tools and materials needed for the workshop are provided (including pigments, brushes, drawing materials, wooden boards and 22k gold leaf for the gilding)

Studio time: The hours can be flexible, but the general idea is to work 10:00-12:30 & 17:00-19:30 every day (except Sundays and August 15th)

Tuition: $950 with a 20% non-refundable deposit to secure a spot. (If any pandemic issues prevent our workshops, we will allow refunds). The rest amound need to be payed till May 30th. All payments are made via Paypal. Should you need to cancel attendance you will receive a refund for any balance paid minus the deposit if we are notified prior to June 10th.