Exhibit Review: Windows into Heaven: Provincial Russian Icons from the 18th century to Early 20th

by Laura Seewoester

Russian icons have been displayed in Russian homes and churches for hundreds of years and many of them were burned during the rise of Communism when Stalin tried to abolish religion. Currently on display at the Irving Arts Center is a collection of Russian icons from the 18th to 20th centuries.

The icons depict a variety of saints and Christian scenes, as well as portraits of Christ and the Virgin Mary. I was really surprised at how well many of the wood paneled images retained their detail and vibrant color. One interesting thing I noticed was that none of the icons were signed by the artist. Signing the religious icons was considered vain, as if the artist was trying to take credit for the gift of art God bestowed upon them. There was a lot of information posted next to the artworks about the icons and their place in Russian Orthodox tradition, and the images themselves were beautiful.

The exhibit will remain on display at the Irving Arts Center until January 2nd.