ICONS by Hanna-Leena Ward
30th January - 19th February
Open during usual opening times, entry donation-based
An Exhibition of Icons at Lichfield Cathedral
Works by Traditional Byzantine Iconographer Hanna-Leena Ward.
Original works by artist Hanna, who will be seated in the North Quire Aisle alongside her exhibition demonstrating some of the traditional artistic techniques she uses to write an icon.
Exploring ICONS: A Guided Tour
Led by The Revd Canon Dr Gregory Platten
Thursday 12 February | 11:00
Join The Revd Canon Dr Gregory Platten, Canon Chancellor at Lichfield Cathedral, for a special guided tour inspired by ICONS, the stunning new exhibition by traditional Byzantine iconographer Hanna-Leena Ward.
On this tour, Canon Gregory will guide you through the Cathedral’s own collection of icons, sharing insights into their history, spiritual significance, and role in worship. The tour will conclude at the ICONS exhibition, where you’ll have the chance to meet Hanna-Leena Ward and learn more about her work.
Please note that spaces for this tour are very limited.
“Iconography is a prayer and my hand is guided from above. Icons are not painted for exhibitions; they are for private prayer, but it is my duty to exhibit them, and to talk to people about them, because people don't see them enough.”
Hanna Ward
ABOUT HANNA
Hanna-Leena Ward is a professional Byzantine Iconographer. She has researched and studied iconography and Orthodox Church painting under several masters from Greece, Russia, Romania, Finland and UK.
Hanna has a Masters Degree in Sacred Traditional Arts from Prince’s School of Traditional Arts, London and she has finished the four year diploma studies in iconography and wall painting under iconographer Aidan Hart in Prince’s School’s Liturgical Arts Program.
Hanna is especially interested in Church wall painting and has been to Romania to research fresco painting under Church painter Adrian Iurco. Hanna has also assisted Aidan with the fresco of the Transfiguration at Leeds.
Hanna has also researched sacred geometry and underlying symbolism in Church architecture as she is an interior designer and has spent her working life in architectural design and drafting. Hanna has painted and taught traditional Folk Art for many years which has given her strong technical skills and foundation for mastering complex icon and wall painting, which is now her calling and passion. Hanna believes that when creating contemporary icons it is important to obey liturgical principles, whilst allowing creativity, in order to uphold this very special image of prayer.
Hanna teaches icon painting and works for commissions.