Artists explore symbolism of icons in Cowan exhibit

The Three Graces, as they’ve been dubbed by an instructor, will open a show of iconography explorations today, Aug. 11, at the Artisan Depot Gallery in Cowan, Tenn. A reception with the artists — Anna Kathryn Anderson, Patricia Underwood and Nancy Jean Wallace — will follow Friday, Aug. 12.

All are Cowan- area artists who over the past three years have focused their talents on iconography with instructors Sandy Kezar and Martha Keeble.

Icons that appear to be paintings are actually considered to be contemplative writing, according to a gallery spokesman. Iconography is a method of painting religious representations done in tempera that emerged as early as the 4th century from Catholic and Greek Orthodox traditions. The modern tradition is based on what has come before but encourages self-discovery and incorporation of new artistic ideas. In this art form, gestures, objects and color all have meaning, and styles vary from culture to culture.

Anderson takes much of her inspiration from Ethiopian artists. Underwood works in Russian and Byzantine themes. Wallace uses the Russian style to tell a story.

The Artisan Depot Gall ery is operated by t he Franklin County Arts Guild, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the arts in Franklin County and the surrounding region.

FACEBOOK PHOTO In this combined trio of images, from left, Anna Kathryn Anderson is inspired by Ethiopian artists, Patricia Underwood works in Russian and Byzantine themes, and Nancy Jean Wallace focuses on the Russian style of iconography to tell a story.