Loveland artist, Barbara Heller, has spent the last 10 years working as an iconographer. As an iconographer, Heller reportedly participates in the classical practice of translating biblical figures, religious events, or concepts into art.
As shared by Artlex, visual language is meant to teach viewers about cultures and societies, both ancient and modern.
However, apart from being an art form, Heller stated in her interview with the Loveland Reporter-Herald that it could also be considered a spiritual practice.
She compared the process of paint mixing and gilding to something that went hand in hand with prayer and fasting.
Ultimately, she stated that it is all about using one's God-given talent to glorify Him and touch the viewers.
It has been a decade since Heller delved into the practice and has been creating pieces for different churches and private collections. However, she said that she had no prior knowledge of the art form.
Beginnings
About 12 years ago, Heller reportedly came across a catalog of mass-produced icons. She found an interest in learning the art form at this point.
Prior to her calling as an iconographer, Heller was only familiar with Byzantine icons and had not thought about delving into how they were made.
When she finally gained interest, she had no idea of how to proceed to learn the art. However, Heller stated that two days later, she came across an announcement from a Catholic radio talk show that an icon workshop would be held in Denver.
She said she attended the workshop at St. Dominic's in Denver. Despite six intense and grueling days of learning, she found herself hooked on the art process.
"This method of doing art was beautiful, contemplative, and prayerful, and it called to me," she said.
On Her Calling
As reported, Heller has maintained a strong passion for her work since she began. She regarded herself as one of the lucky people who got to do what they loved.
However, every career has its difficult aspects.
According to Heller, the most challenging part of being an iconographer is creating a piece with the desired, appropriate meaning.
She stated that one of her most challenging projects involved designing the Paschal (Easter) candles for several Front Range parishes.
She wanted the piece to look beautiful on a four-to-five-foot tall, 11-inch diameter cylinder. At the same time, it had to have the intended religious meaning.
However, Heller stated that the project was as much fun as it was difficult. It was also humbling for her to know that the candles she designed would be lit during the Easter season and at every baptism and funeral.
Heller also shared two of her favorite creations.
The first one was "Our Lady of Tenderness." Heller stated that she wrote about the icon at least six times.
The icon depicts a mother cradling her baby while her child holds on to her mantle.
According to Heller, anyone can respond to an intimate scene regardless of their beliefs.
Another iconic piece she created was the "Holy Angel Hesychia," also known as the "Angel of Contemplation."
Heller reportedly wrote a large piece for her own space amid the pandemic, which felt like an extended retreat to her.
As much as Heller enjoys the practice of iconography, she also hopes that others see the truth and beauty of her pieces.
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