The Story of St. Nicholas Icon

Kosovo is a small and cozy village with picturesque views and wild nature. It is located between the hills of the Osogovo Mountain, scattered among many remote neighborhoods. The small church was built on a hill and surrounded by nature. It was built in 1885 and bears the name “St. Nicholas the Wonderworker”, and next to there’s a former primary school, of which almost nothing remains.

I dedicated it in memory of a local resident deeply respected by me and the village.

 I still experience a strong emotional moment and excitement, especially when it comes to the technical aspect, as I admit I am not a specialist in icon painting.

Popova mahala, one of the many dilapidated neighborhoods in the village.
Me and the icon before the consecration.
The icon in front of the altar.
One of the few houses untouched by nature.
Dark green and cultivated yard.
Garden flowers next to a centuries-old walnut tree.
“St. Nicholas the Wonderworker” Church in the village of Kosovo, Kyustendil region.
The church in the village was built in 1885.

I have a deep connection with this charming village for years. That’s why I promised myself to paint an icon as a gift to the church. I dedicated it in memory of a local resident deeply respected by me and the village. Working on the icon was like a symbol of spirituality and building an even stronger bond between me, the village, and nature. I still experience a strong emotional moment and excitement, especially when it comes to the technical aspect, as I admit I am not a specialist in icon painting. I hope the icon withstands the test of time.