An Exhibition of Icons at Lichfield Cathedral

Lichfield Cathedral is delighted to host a new exhibition of sacred art by traditional Byzantine iconographer Hanna‑Leena Ward. Displayed in the North Quire Aisle, the exhibition invites visitors to experience the depth, symbolism, and stillness at the heart of iconographic tradition.

Throughout the exhibition, Hanna will be present in the space, demonstrating the meticulous craft of icon writing and offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness the ancient techniques that shape her work.

Hanna speaks of her practice with deep reverence:

“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.”

The exhibition, which runs from 30 January until 19 Feburary 2026, showcases a selection of Hanna’s original icons, created through years of study and practice under masters in Greece, Russia, Romania, Finland, and the UK. Her work is rooted in both tradition and research, shaped by her training at the Prince’s School of Traditional Arts and her extensive exploration of fresco painting, sacred geometry, and liturgical art.

Canon Chancellor at Lichfield Cathedral, The Revd Dr Canon Gregory Platten said: “I am delighted that we are hosting these icons. Beyond their artistic beauty, icons in the Christian tradition are windows into a divine world shaped by beauty, truth, and goodness. In turbulent times, these windows into heaven offer a quiet, sustaining vision.”

Visitors are warmly invited to explore this peaceful and spiritually rich exhibition until 19 February. The exhibition will be open during usual opening hours (working around daily services) and entry is donation-based.

For more information, visit: www.lichfield-cathedral.org

About Hanna‑Leena Ward

Hanna‑Leena Ward is a professional Byzantine iconographer whose work is rooted deeply in the traditional practices of the Orthodox Church. She has studied iconography and church painting extensively under masters from Greece, Russia, Romania, Finland, and the UK, developing a profound understanding of the craft’s spiritual and theological foundations.

Hanna holds a Master’s Degree in Sacred Traditional Arts from the Prince’s School of Traditional Arts, London, and has completed a rigorous four‑year diploma in iconography and wall painting under renowned iconographer Aidan Hart, as part of the School’s Liturgical Arts Programme.

Her particular interest lies in church wall painting and fresco, inspired by research trips to Romania where she studied under Church painter Adrian Iurco, and through practical experience assisting Aidan Hart with the fresco of the Transfiguration in Leeds.

In addition to her work as an iconographer, Hanna has a background in interior and architectural design, which has given her a strong foundation in sacred geometry and the symbolism embedded within church architecture. Her early years teaching and painting traditional folk art provided technical precision and confidence, skills that now inform her complex icon and wall‑painting compositions.

Hanna believes that contemporary icons must remain faithful to liturgical principles while allowing room for creativity: a balance that preserves the icon’s purpose as a prayer in colour, form, and light.

She continues to teach iconography and accepts commissions for liturgical and devotional works.