Workshop "Writing an icon": Introduction and advanced practice with Maël Boureux
Write your own icon
Workshop "Writing an icon": Introduction and advanced practice with Maël Boureux
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Learn to "write" an icon according to Byzantine and Orthodox tradition
This workshop is an invitation to a profound artistic and spiritual experience, where technique meets prayer to bring forth the light of icons.
Open to all, beginners and those with prior iconographic practice, who wish to deepen their understanding of the art and spirituality of icon writing.
- Comprehensive training in the art of writing an icon, from preparing the support to final touches.
- Personalized guidance from a renowned iconographer, Maël Boureux, sharing his passion and expertise.
- Use of traditional techniques and materials for an authentic immersion.
- An approach that combines artistic technique with spiritual depth.
- A peaceful and inspiring setting, conducive to concentration and artistic creation.
Each participant leaves with their personal icon created during the workshop.
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From 16/11/2026 09:00 to 20/11/2026 16:00
The term "writing an icon" reflects the depth of this sacred art that goes far beyond simple painting.
It is an act of prayer, a spiritual journey where the artist becomes an instrument to reveal the divine through matter.
This workshop, led by Maël Boureux, a renowned iconographer, invites you to discover or deepen this ancestral discipline.
- Maël Boureux is a passionate artist and an attentive teacher.
- His approach is fully rooted in Byzantine and Orthodox iconographic tradition.
- He transmits not only the precise technical gestures (preparing the support, applying layers, pigments, gilding, etc.), but also the spirit and symbolism of each stage of creation.
- For Maël, each icon is a "window onto eternity," and his teaching guides participants through this process of revelation.
This workshop offers a balance between technical learning and spiritual immersion:
- introduction to the fundamentals of iconography: history, symbolism of colors and forms.
- discovery of traditional materials: wooden board, levkas (gesso), pigments, egg tempera, gold leaf.
- step-by-step learning of the different stages of icon writing.
- periods of silence and meditation to accompany the creative process and encourage internalization.
Each participant, whether beginner or more experienced, will receive individual guidance in creating their own icon, which they will take home at the end of the workshop.
This is a unique opportunity to connect with a millennial artistic tradition and to experience the richness of sacred art as a path of prayer.
Practical information
- If you have any dietary requirements: please specify when registering so the kitchen can accommodate them.
- Sheets and towels are provided by the center and placed on your bed.
- WiFi is available throughout the facility.
- Bring your Bible (if you have one), a notebook, and pen.
- The 12-hectare park, library, and lounge are available to all retreatants
Getting here
- By car from Redon: direction La Gacilly then La Roche du Theil (La Roche du Theil - Google Maps)
- By train: Redon TGV station – The station is 6 minutes from the center. Taxi available.
- Upon arrival, check in at reception to collect your key.
Financial participation
- Contribution to expenses: 5 days / €590 (tourist tax not included)
- The price of the retreat includes accommodation, meals, room, and instructor.
- To confirm your registration, you will be asked for a deposit of 30% of the retreat amount. In case of cancellation, all sums paid to the Center remain with the Center except in case of cancellation by the Center.
The participation amount should not be a barrier. If you have financial difficulties, please do not hesitate to contact us.