Church Design and Large-Scale Drawing

From Concept to Painted Space

A unique four-day experience with Dr. George Kordis

NOW IN PRE-REGISTRATION — SEE BELOW

Fanarion Orthodox Dialougue Center · Budapest, Hungary

May 13–16, 2027

How does an iconographer begin to design for an entire church? Over four days at the Fanarion Orthodox Dialougue Center, Dr. George Kordis will take a small group inside the Church of the Three Hierarchs, the Narthex, two chapels, and the refectory to explore how he developed the full painted programs, from his first ideas to the completed interiors.

The residency balances discussion, direct observation, and hands-on drawing practice. In the painted spaces, we’ll look at what guided Kordis’s choices about where images belong, how large they should be, and how figures, ornament, and inscriptions work together across an interior. Comparing the four spaces will show how the purpose and proportions of each room shaped its design.

In the studio, Kordis will demonstrate how he develops a small sketch into a large-scale drawing using the Byzantine visual system. Participants will create drawing studies of their own, exploring how line, gesture, and proportion work in church space. The small group allows time for questions, close observation, and individual guidance.

Building on Writing the Light’s Sacred Space program, the residency offers a rare opportunity to explore the living Byzantine tradition in the company of the artist who designed these interiors. It is especially suited to Sacred Space students and also welcomes other iconography students and artists interested in church design, including those wishing to explore large-scale drawing and painting.

Offered immediately after the May 6–12 Spring Icon Painting Residency at the Fanarion — it can be paired with the 7-day Icon Painting or attended separately. 

A €100 discount will apply for students attending both residencies. Enrollment is limited to 16.

All paper materials for lessons will be provided. Students must bring their own drawing tools and personal sketchbooks.

Tuition · €600 for four days. 

PRE-REGISTER HERE NOW to be the first to sign up and be offered a participant space.

Questions?  Please email Director Keri Wiederspahn at keri@writingthelight.com.