"3 knots for St Francis"

It was a privilege and a joy to participate in another on- line Icon painting experience with Helen who is generous in her sharing of a depth of knowledge and information ; well prepared and clearly presented. We were taught the twelfth century painting Techniques of Theophilus with supporting videos and learned about St Francis of Assisi through talks and reading suggestions all of which were ordered, challenging and stimulating. Instructions for Gilding were excellent so a high level of work was achievable.
the process also involved Spiritual growth as we were encouraged to overcome our sense of creative uncertainty. The high level of research and love of her subject shone through illuminating all of us in the presence of Saint Francis . The icon continues to radiate from its historical past into the present day through the practice taught on this course. I would recommend "Finding Francis' to any serious seeker ready to be surprised and awakened .

"My 2nd Icon painting course with Helen"

Another wonderful experience with Helen. This time residential at Our Lady of Walsingham shrine in Norfolk, so naturally we painted her. As a second attempt at this very difficult medium I was slightly concerned but I should have known Helen would lead us expertly through every stage. Her knowledge & love of this form of art is astounding.
The help, advice and encouragement from her and all the other members on the course was incredible and our little group jelled together very well, In fact we still keep in touch, a lovely way to continue the friendship we all enjoyed that week.
Helen is always available for help and tips as we continue our journey through Icon Painting.
I would definitely recommend these courses to anyone and can't wait to do another myself.

"(This is my 2nd attempt to provide a…"

(This is my 2nd attempt to provide a review-think I pressed wrong button, so apologies)

The course was centred on the imagery of the Enthroned Virgin, particularly Our Lady of Walsingham. Our focus was the Icon “Walsinghamskya”, commissioned by the Roman Catholic National Shrine from the Russian Orthodox brothers at St Seraphim’s in Walsingham.
The course students ranged from beginners to the more experienced. Helen, the course tutor, has the ability to get you to produce something bigger than yourself, whatever your icon skill level. She guided us through 4 different gilding methods, Russian icon painting processes, techniques involved in painting robes, flesh tones and facial features. All were valuable lessons in my progress as a “beginner” in creating icons.
In addition we visited the Anglican, Catholic and Orthodox churches housing images of Our Lady of Walsingham not only to gain context but to pray and contemplate.
We learned about the origins of the Walsingham shrine and pilgrimages, plus the mystery of the “Langham Madonna”, which might be the original Medieval shrine statue saved and hidden from Cromwell’s officers - a mystery awaiting some deeper forensic evaluation.
We also were introduced to alternative painting perspectives both by a documentary and a visit to a local artist with an intriguing take on making pigments.
The course was residential, based in the Anglican Shrine Complex, allowing us time to cohere socially. The hilarious quiz night was a treat ( including time to sample the Shrine’s craft “Visions” gin!!!)
By the end of the course I had the majority of the icon completed and the confidence to complete the difficult task of flesh tones and facial details at home. Helen’s mentoring was and is invaluable as she provides “aftercare” to help you complete any unfinished parts of the icon.
This is my third “Icon Adventure” in five years. I still consider myself a novice but in completing my Walsinghamskya I can see good progress in my icon skill set - mostly down to Helen’s encouragement.
I unhesitatingly recommend Icon Adventures and it’s range of icon painting opportunities. Helen provides hands on tutoring as well as deep knowledge of Orthodox iconography and Western religious art. Well worth the money.

"Walsingham 2021"

This course was exceptional in many ways. First of all, it was long awaited because of Covid, so all the participants were appreciative that at last it was going ahead. Everything was laid out in the studio so that we all felt safe. Helen's tuition and help throughout the course were excellent and she made herself available for help and advice on a WhatsApp group even after the course had finished. There was a good atmosphere among the group and Helen encouraged us along our journey. The visits and additional information were very good. I would definitely sign up for another course with Helen. She always goes 'above and beyond' to help and advise and solve any problems which arise.

"A Great Course For All Abilities"

This course was a very special event. The students had a broad range of experience, including my own novice status, but all were able to proceed at their own pace in a wonderful atmosphere of mutual support and real generosity facilitated by Helen. The venue at Walsingham was wonderful and helped foster a thoughful atmosphere. Both pre and post course, Helen has been helpful and supportive, freely giving of her knowledge and expertise and I can highly recommend her course for anyone interested in gaining more understanding of icon painting and developing the techniques employed.

"This course was so well conceived to…"

This course was so well conceived to provide guidance and support I think for all levels virtually on an individual basis. I also think it was as close as possible in these times to give the sense of an actual live retreat to paint an icon. I learnt much and been given materials and inspiration to increase my level of painting and enjoyment. I am so pleased I was able to attend the course and would recommend to any one who sincerely wanted to try to paint an icon or increase their skills.

"Get Ahead with St.Peter"

Icon Adventures provided a wonderful experience of making a journey and pilgrimage through the history of medieval art, with brilliant practical instruction in the painting of an icon. I would highly recommend this company to anyone thinking of making a spiritual and practical retreat in orthodox iconography, you will experience and receive great practical and spiritual support, care and understanding, especially when you are a novice.
CBC

"I have been on a number of courses with…"

I have been on a number of courses with Icon Adventures and everyone has been very enjoyable and rewarding. I highly recommend Icon Adventures to anyone thinking about trying icon painting for the first time or wanting to develop and learn new techniques. Helen is very professional in her approach and very accomplished as a teacher as well as an icon painter