About Emanuel & Saintly Folk

I was introduced to iconography and Orthodox Christianity at the same moment.

I was immediately captivated by the Tradition and knew that I wanted to give my whole life to becoming an iconographer as a means of following Christ.

Although I began my journey—very roughly, I might add—copying ancient models in egg tempera and becoming acquainted with the visual-theological language of iconography, I eventually discovered the treasures of encaustic painting. Ceracolors encaustic, a saponified wax medium, provided new possibilities with texture and depth, and also allows me to develop my own techniques.

I paint in the tradition of Fr. Gregory Kroug and the French school of iconography, which was introduced to me by my godfather. I would call myself a long-distance student of that lineage. I work without a formal studio, at a kitchen table, between homeschool lessons and the ordinary rhythms of family life. I have found that this is not a hindrance. If anything, it is fitting.

Although I do not have a formal studio, I dream of eventually building a small cabin-style studio in the woods near my house to be surrounded by the natural beauty of the mountains. For now, I paint at the kitchen table between homeschool lessons and the ordinary rituals of family life. My wife and little ones are also images of Christ who I'm called to tend, so it all fits together quite well (though it can get a bit crazy sometimes!).

Saintly Folk is where I write about all these things. I document my icon painting process, I share some personal and spiritual thoughts, I talk about the role of the saints in our life, and ultimately how the human in union with Christ is the greatest work of art. Paid subscribers of Saintly Folk are brought deeper into the studio for my articles on process, discounts and early bird access to purchase imited, embellished prints, ink drawings, preliminary sketches, and commission discounts. Founding Members receive a hand-painted 4x4in icon of the Holy Face of Christ.

Thanks for visiting and I hope you stick around!