I paint icons via the medieval method, i.e. I apply gesso made from glue and chalk onto a wooden (lime, but not only) panel in layers. I grind each layer separately once it is dry. Then I apply the drawing and mark parts for applying gold leaf, different colors, or copper using the Mixtion mixture. Once the gold leaf is dry and preserved, I proceed to apply pigments mixed with egg yolk. When the colors have dried, I apply bright impasto layers onto the icon, which gives the chiaroscuro effect.
I also use the pattern of the wooden panel, which gives me “hints” as to the subject and shape of the icon.
Then I use transparent wood stain, acrylic paints, or pigments mixed with egg yolk, gilts and pastes in the colors of gold, copper, and silver. Finally, I varnish all icons.

Saint Basil the Great (with a beard)
wooden panel 20 x 30 cm - egg tempera

Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki (with a shield)
wooden panel 20 x 30 cm - egg tempera

Archangel Michael
wooden panel 20 x 30 cm - egg tempera

Archangel Michael in the gates of heaven
wooden panel 19,5 x 30 cm - egg tempera