I discovered this book shortly before I went on a icon painting retreat. Christ the Pantocrater is the icon we painted. this book helped me have some pre knowledge before I went. This is well written and very informative.

Fascinating and exciting way to take time to sit quietly and explore your beliefs, focus your heart and respond with love.

As an iconographer myself, I found the concept of a book based upon an icon writing retreat to be a curious concept. The process of writing an icon involves much prayer, fasting, and silence - all aspects of a good retreat. The author draws upon those, as well as wisdom from the history and methodology of iconography, to craft a text best used on a personal retreat or for the more art-inclined among us.

I just finished this book and absolutely loved it. I cannot recommend this book enough.

In recent years, there has seemed to be a resurgence in popularity of Eastern icons within the Christian church. This books provides a much needed English-language resource for those looking for a solid introduction to both the theology and the self-production of icons in the Eastern style.

By providing theological reflections for each stage of the icon's production, the author assures that the reader will benefit from the self-guided retreat, even if the art they produce is not at the level they wish it would be. Each step of the process is written as a meditative theological exercise which draws the participant closer to Christ. In this way, even simply reading through it without creating the icon is a fruitful and spiritually enriching process. I read it in its entirety without creating the icon, but now that I've read it through once, I can't wait to have a second go at it, brush in hand.

This book deserves to be read by anyone with a wish to gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of iconography. Although written from a Catholic perspective, I believe anyone looking for a basic introduction to the theology and execution of icons will be edified by reading.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

This excellent book is a different kind of retreat. instead of just being theological orBiblical reflections, it brings you into contemplation of God through the actual creation of an icon. Written by a professional writer of icons who also does these retreats in person, the detailed instructions will have the retreatant creating a traditional icon of Christ.

The short reflections that begin each chapter are relevant and very meaningful But the real glory of the book are the incredibly detailed and well-phhotographed instructions on writing the icon. The reader will not only learn the many techniques that go into an icon, but also the reasons behind them.

It's a wonderful book!.

Drawing Closer to Christ

A Self-Guided Icon Retreat



by Joseph Malham

Ave Maria Press

Christian , Religion & Spirituality

Pub Date 20 Oct 2017

I am reviewing a copy of Drawing Closer to Christ through Ave Maria Press and Netgalley:

In this book the author tells us icons are not only beautiful works of art, but they are also sacred windows into an unseen world. In this book it also includes lessons for paintings. The book is broken into days.

The author goes on to point out that while God in his essence can never be managed in shape or form. The author points out too that for over 1500 years Christians have used icons to help them Meditate and pray.

I give Drawing Closer to Christ four out of five stars.

Happy Reading!