My name is Petro, and I am the founder of ICON EXPERIENCE. For over 20 years, I have been dedicated to the sacred art of iconography, specializing in traditional techniques such as egg tempera and gilding with gold leaf.
I am the author of several educational courses where I openly share all the methods, recipes, and nuances of this ancient art form. Everything is demonstrated in video format, making it accessible even to beginners. I am passionate about passing on this knowledge and helping others discover the beauty and depth of icon painting.
Originally from Ukraine, I have worked on church murals and sacred art projects in Ukraine, Hungary, Slovakia, and Italy. My work bridges both classical Byzantine and contemporary Neo-Byzantine styles. Due to the ongoing war, I am now temporarily based in the United Kingdom to ensure the safety of my family and our five children.
Despite the difficult conditions in Ukraine—frequent blackouts and air raid alerts—my team of skilled artists at ICON EXPERIENCE continues to work diligently. We are a professional iconography studio committed to creating iconostases, murals, and commissioned icons for private collectors and churches around the world.
Here in the UK, I have held two solo exhibitions—one in the literary town of Hay-on-Wye and another in Hereford. Together with my wife Eva, we also lead live training sessions and hands-on workshops. I find great joy in teaching, especially those who are just beginning and have no prior experience in iconography.
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Faith and Inspiration
I am a Christian, and my faith is at the heart of everything I do. Iconography is more than an art form—it is a spiritual practice and a form of prayer. Since childhood, drawing has been a way for me to connect with God. Through painting, I engage in a personal dialogue with Jesus Christ, and every icon deepens that relationship.
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Education & Artistic Journey
My artistic path began at the College of Arts in Uzhhorod, Ukraine. I later continued my education at the Lviv National Academy of Arts, where I received my Master’s degree in 2006.
Over the years, I have painted more than 15 churches and chapels in different countries. I have completed over 30 iconostases and created more than 3,000 icons, many of which are now housed in private collections around the globe.
For the past seven years, I’ve been leading a team of 10 talented artists. Together, we collaborate on a wide range of sacred art projects, combining deep tradition with excellence in craftsmanship.
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About Eva
Iconography Instructor | Specialist in Traditional Techniques
Eva is a tutor at ICON EXPERIENCE and the wife of Petro. They met while studying at the Lviv National Academy of Arts, where Eva specialized in art restoration. Her academic background and hands-on experience give her deep expertise in traditional iconographic materials and methods, including egg tempera, chalk gesso, surface reliefs, and the proper preparation of wooden icon boards.
Eva plays a vital role in our educational mission. She leads online iconography courses for students around the world, using Petro’s instructional videos as a foundation. Her ability to explain complex techniques with clarity and care makes her an excellent mentor, especially for those who are just beginning their icon-painting journey.
Eva offers both group workshops and one-on-one training sessions. In addition, she provides private consultations, helping students troubleshoot technical issues or overcome challenges in their icon projects. Her approach is patient, supportive, and deeply rooted in tradition.
Having lived in different parts of the world and raising five children, Eva has developed practical communication skills in English, which she uses to connect with international students. Alongside Petro, she also co-leads live, in-person workshops.
Eva is not only a skilled instructor but also an active participant in exhibitions and the broader iconographic community. Her presence is a cornerstone of the ICON EXPERIENCE team.