Dimensions: 40 x 20 cm, 49 x 29 cm framed
Technique: mixed media, oil on canvas
Signature: on the reverse
A subtle, symbolic composition inspired by the aesthetics of contemporary icons. Simplified angelic figures with clearly defined, gilded halos emerge from the multi-layered paint, creating an atmosphere of focus and spiritual contemplation. The work represents the “shadows” style of modern iconography—a form that is extremely rare and unique in the religious art market.
The icon is created on canvas into which authentic fragments of old canvases—sourced from the restoration of historic churches and Orthodox churches—are pasted. The artist, who holds a doctorate in historic preservation, obtains these fragments with the permission and blessing of clergy, respecting their original sacred purpose. This lends the work a special spiritual dimension as a “picture with a soul”—one that was previously present in the space of prayer and liturgy, and thus symbolically “prayed over.”
The entire piece is mounted in a unique, velour, gold-plated passe-partout and a classic gold frame, which harmoniously emphasize the sacred character of the composition and its three-dimensional, relief-like structure.
Proceeds from the sale of the painting will go toward the renovation of the Orthodox church in Baligród—the artist actively supports the conservation efforts by donating proceeds from the sale of her works to this cause.
Małgorzata Dawidiuk (b. 1967)
Painting – Contemporary Icon
This work by Małgorzata Dawidiuk—one of Poland’s most highly regarded contemporary icon painters—represents a unique fusion of the Byzantine icon tradition with her own modern painterly interpretation.
The artist was born in 1967 in Wisznice, in the Podlasie region. In 1994, she graduated from the I. E. Repin Academy of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg, from the Department of Painting and Conservation, specializing in icon painting—one of the most demanding and prestigious artistic paths. She is the founder and director of the “IKOS” conservation and art studio.
Małgorzata Dawidiuk is the creator of numerous sacred artworks: icons, iconostases, and polychromes, including those in Chołowice near Krasiczyn, Koszalin, Krynica, Olsztyn, Zamienice near Legnica, and in Niagou, Slovakia. She is also a co-author of the murals in the Chapel of the Shrine of Divine Mercy in Kraków-Łagiewniki. Her works are held in private and museum collections in Poland and abroad.
The artist’s work draws from two sources:
– many years of experience as a conservator of sacred art,
– her deep roots in the iconographic tradition.
Initially, the artist created faithful copies and reinterpretations of ancient icons, adhering strictly to the rules of “painting” sacred images—along with spiritual preparation and respect for theological tradition. Over time, the canon became a starting point for her rather than a limitation—giving way to her own creativity and a contemporary form of expression.
A special place in her body of work is occupied by “shadow icons” and her later works on canvas, in which fragments of original, old canvases—discovered during restoration work in Orthodox churches—are affixed to a new stretcher. These are authentic relics of ancient churches, carrying within them the memory of place, prayer, and history. From individual figures, multi-layered figurative scenes emerge, constructing a narrative that straddles the sacred and contemporary sensibilities.
The artist combines technical mastery, conservation experience, and an academic background —after studying in St. Petersburg, she earned a Doctor of Arts degree from the University of Technology and Humanities in Radom, which confirms her high standing both as an artist and as a researcher of iconography.
Collectible and Social Value
Purchasing the presented painting or a certified art print is not only an investment in the work of a recognized artist but also tangible support for cultural heritage.
