Looking for a hand-painted icon that speaks to your faith and style? These five artists blend tradition with personal expression, offering everything from classic egg tempera to modern reimaginings.
The Art of Custom Icons: A Modern Renaissance
Custom icon painting is a niche but thriving craft, rooted in centuries-old traditions yet evolving with contemporary tastes. Artists today offer a range of styles, from strict Orthodox egg tempera to more personal, modern interpretations. Whether you're commissioning a piece for your home, a church, or as a gift, the process is deeply collaborative, often involving prayerful research and careful design. The internet has made it easier than ever to connect with iconographers across the US and UK, each bringing their unique background and approach to this sacred art.
How We Evaluated These Icon Artists
To help you choose, we looked at each artist's service scope, pricing clarity, and how well they cater to different needs. We considered the range of styles offered, from traditional to contemporary, and how transparent they are about costs and timelines. We also noted their unique strengths, such as specialization in certain mediums or a particular artistic vision. Each artist stands out for different reasons, so you can find the perfect match for your project.
Here's a quick overview of the five artists we're featuring, so you can see at a glance what each one offers.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Brian Matthew Whirledge Iconography | Traditional Orthodox icons with clear pricing |
| HOME | Grace Louise Collins | Modern, reimagined saint icons and commissions |
| catherine mary icons | Personalized, collaborative icon commissions |
| Hand Painted Icons by Katherine Sanders | Authentic Orthodox icons with a Scottish touch |
| Let There Be Light Art | Traditional Orthodox icons for special occasions |
Meet the Artists: A Closer Look
#1 Brian Matthew Whirledge Iconography
A screenshot of the Brian Matthew Whirledge Iconography website.
Brian Matthew Whirledge is a dedicated iconographer who creates hand-painted icons in the traditional Orthodox style, using egg tempera and natural mineral pigments. His website offers clear pricing for common sizes, starting at $550 for a 5x7 inch icon, which is helpful for budgeting. He prayerfully considers each commission, referencing existing icons and the life of the saint to create a piece that encourages prayer and contemplation. Whether you need a small panel for your home or a large mural for a church, Brian's expertise and reverence for the craft shine through. His focus on traditional techniques and materials ensures a timeless, sacred artwork. You can reach him directly via email to discuss your vision and receive a custom quote.
#2 HOME | Grace Louise Collins
A screenshot of the HOME | Grace Louise Collins website.
Grace Louise Collins is a versatile artist and designer who brings a fresh, contemporary approach to sacred art through her project The Modern Saints. She reimagines historic icons of saints as if they were living today, offering a unique and relatable perspective that resonates with modern audiences. With over 175 completed paintings and a book published in December 2023, she has established a substantial body of work. Her website invites commissions, speaking engagements, and print orders, making her accessible for various projects. If you're looking for a custom saint icon that breaks from tradition while still honoring the spiritual essence, Grace's work is a compelling choice. Her portfolio spans multiple mediums, from painting to block prints, showcasing her creative range.
#3 catherine mary icons
A screenshot of the catherine mary icons website.
Catherine Mary Icons offers a deeply personal and collaborative approach to commissioning icons, emphasizing the spiritual journey of the process. Her website describes icons as 'a window into the heavenly realms,' and she works closely with clients to understand their hopes and intentions. She is open to both traditional icons and other styles of sacred art, making her a flexible choice for those seeking something unique. The initial consultation can be done in person or via Zoom, allowing for a thorough discussion of size, gilding, cost, and timescales. Catherine's thoughtful, prayerful approach ensures that each piece is tailored to the individual's spiritual needs. Her background in calligraphy and fine art adds a distinctive layer to her iconography.
#4 Hand Painted Icons by Katherine Sanders
A screenshot of the Hand Painted Icons by Katherine Sanders website.
Katherine Sanders is a Scottish iconographer based in Edinburgh, creating hand-painted icons in the traditional Orthodox method of egg tempera. Her work is described as 'authentic, personal, and sensitive,' with a wide appeal that aims to spread the joy of Christ. She paints icons of Christ, the Theotokos, and the Saints, and her website includes testimonials from satisfied clients, like a touching story of a baptism gift. Katherine's connection to the cradle of Celtic Christianity adds a unique historical depth to her practice. She is a member of the Orthodox Church, ensuring her icons are grounded in authentic tradition. If you're looking for a piece that supports prayer and contemplation, her icons are crafted with great care and devotion.
#5 Let There Be Light Art
A screenshot of the Let There Be Light Art website.
Let There Be Light Art, run by Alina, specializes in hand-painted Eastern Orthodox icons using the traditional egg tempera technique. Her website highlights the transformative power of icons, whether for personal devotion, as a meaningful gift, or to honor a benefactor. She offers a range of services, from researching and painting a custom icon to proposing religious images that align with your mood and style. Alina's icons are steeped in tradition and spiritual significance, with meticulous attention to detail. She welcomes inquiries for various occasions, including christenings, weddings, and anniversaries. If you're seeking a unique and deeply personal gift, her commissioned icons are a sincere and lasting choice.
How to Choose the Right Icon Artist for You
Start by considering the style that resonates with you—do you prefer traditional Orthodox iconography or a more modern interpretation? Think about the purpose of the icon: is it for personal prayer, a gift, or to enhance your home's ambiance? Look at each artist's portfolio to see which one's aesthetic aligns with your vision. Consider practical factors like pricing, location, and whether they offer the size and medium you need. Don't hesitate to reach out for a consultation; the best icon is one that feels personally meaningful and spiritually uplifting.
Streamlining Your Icon Commission
Once you've chosen an artist, the commission process can be streamlined by preparing your ideas in advance. Gather reference images, decide on the saint or subject, and note any specific stylistic preferences. Use the contact forms or emails provided on their websites to initiate a conversation, and be clear about your budget and timeline. Many artists offer prints or smaller works if a full commission isn't feasible, so explore those options as well. By being organized and communicative, you'll ensure a smooth and rewarding experience.
Finding Your Perfect Icon
Each of these five artists brings a unique blend of tradition, creativity, and personal devotion to the craft of icon painting. Whether you're drawn to the classic egg tempera of Brian Whirledge or the modern reimaginings of Grace Louise Collins, there's an artist here to match your spiritual and aesthetic needs. Take your time to explore their portfolios and reach out with any questions—the right icon will be a treasure for years to come. Happy commissioning!