Over a decade ago Teresa Futrick developed an interest in the icon, a unique art form.
Icons are representations of saints and sacred scenes and served as both teaching aids and “windows to heaven”. For the past 13 years, Mrs. Futrick has studied the special techniques involved in creating an icon studying with Master Iconographer, Philip Zimmerman and attending national workshops.
Icons are painted on cloth covered boards, wet sanded to a high sheen. Gold leaf is employed extensively as backgrounds, halos and ornamentation.
The current exhibit located at the Gallery on Pennsylvania Avenue, depicts a large rendering of St. Nicholas.
St. Nicholas was a bishop of Myra, Turkey in the 4th century. He became known for his willingness to defend what was right and for his ability to protect his people. His good deeds and generosity was the basis for the current version of Santa Claus.
The four-foot painting was done on canvas then transferred to the display board. This procedure is used in many churches allowing a larger painting to then be attached to walls or ceilings like wallpaper.
Teresa Futrick resides with her husband in Tyrone. Additional information on the artist and her works may be obtained by contacting the ARTS LINE office at 684-ART2 or the artist at 684-5581.
Gallery exhibits are made possible through a grant from the PA Council on the Arts, a state agency, the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency and Tyrone Borough.