Byzantine Iconography Series 9 (P2) : Prophet Elijah

In this installment of our Byzantine Iconography Drawing Tutorials, we delve into icon composition, bringing together all the skills you've developed in the previous eight series. This tutorial builds directly upon the foundations laid in Series 1 (Drawing the Face), Series 2 (Drawing the Half Figure), Series 3 (Garment Basics – parts 1 & 3), Series 3 (Full Figure), Series 5 (Drawing 3/4 Figures), Series 6 (Drawing Seated Figures), and Series 8 (Drawing Mountains and Landscapes). Prior completion of these series is highly recommended.

This second tutorial focuses on composing an icon of the Prophet Elijah within a dynamic landscape setting. We'll begin by exploring how rhythm is effectively utilized in landscape compositions. Based on Patreon feedback, we'll create a more "adventurous" composition, depicting Elijah with one hand outstretched to the raven and the other raised in prayer/thanksgiving to God – a departure from the more traditional resting-head pose.

We'll guide you through the process of establishing the basic structure of both the figure and the landscape, emphasizing the development of compositional rhythm before moving on to the intricate details of the icon.

Required Materials: Pencil, paper, and eraser.

Learn to master Byzantine icon drawing and create compelling religious art with our comprehensive tutorials. Perfect for artists seeking to expand their skills in figure drawing, landscape drawing, and iconography.