In a new episode of createid, Idaho Public Television’s online creativity series, watch as expert Greek iconographers transform the inside of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church in Pocatello, Idaho. They took part in the renovation of the church, which was built in 1915 by Greek immigrants.
Iconography is an ancient style of painting used to depict biblical figures and stories on the interiors of Orthodox Christian churches. Parishioners venerate the icons, considering them more than just images.
“We don’t just look at them; we pray to them,” says Father Constantine Zozos of the Pocatello church. “In a way, they’re real people.”
The iconographers first draw scenes in charcoal and then fill them in with multiple layers of paint. Historically, the colors were made by mixing egg yolks with pigments, but today painters often use a modern medium and colored oxides to achieve their palette. The colors are typically subdued in order to create a sense of unity and calm, and iconographers sometimes chant as they paint.
“You have to have a connection to what you paint,” says George Kordis, Ph.D., a master iconographer featured in the piece. “I don’t think that you can render the deep spirit of the work if you are not close to it.”
Producer Marcia Franklin and director Andy Lawless spent several days with the iconographers, watching them work.
“It was amazing to see how quickly the artists would finish an icon,” says Franklin. “But they were also incredibly precise. I’ve been in the church many times and I’m still awed by their work.”
In the story, viewers learn more about the style of iconographic painting and see some of the stunning finished icons, including those on the inside of the church’s dome.
For members of the faith, the addition of iconography to the century-old church has been moving. “This is the way it should be,” says parishioner Vivian Goodner. “When you walk into an Orthodox church, you should feel this communion of saints and ordinary people today, and the feeling of history.”
“It brings tears to my eyes,” says Father Zozos. “I get emotional because as you get older, I think you want to get closer to God, and this sure is a way of doing that.”
To watch “Closer to God” and a time-lapse of iconographer George Kordis as he paints an icon, check out the show’s website. That’s also where you can take a 360-degree tour of the church. Plus, there’s much more on the show’s social media pages! Follow createid on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.