Virgin of the Sign
by Zachary Roesemann

Medium: Egg tempera on board
Date/Size: 2005 / 13" by 17"

The Virgin of the Sign, associated with Advent, represents the famous prophecy of Isaiah, "Behold, A virgin shall conceive and bear a son. And his name shall be called Emmanuel."

I began writing icons in 2003, in some hesitation and confusion. A scholar by inclination and professional singer by training and choice, I was called to iconography specifically and insistently, and much against my better judgment. But God as always knows best, and I am thankful to have been led to a calling I find full of wonder and peace. I am deeply grateful to Father John Walsted of New York for taking me on as a student and teaching me so much.

I "write" icons (as the process is called) using traditional techniques and materials. The combination of natural elements—animal, mineral, and vegetable—is purposeful, uniting creation in the icon to glorify God. Also as is traditional, I model my icons on the ancient originals, those images that the church has over the centuries accepted and revered as "windows on heaven."