About Joe Vella

Welcome to the artistic journey of Joe Vella, a dedicated iconographer from Lija, Malta. Discover the sacred art of Holy Icons, crafted with deep reverence and adherence to Byzantine traditions.

My Journey into Iconography

My path to writing Holy Icons began with the Neocatechumenal Way and the profound impact of icons by Kiko Argüello. In 1998, I began experimenting with acrylics on matte art paper, using gold paint for gilding. This early exploration led to small commissions and the support of sponsors. A significant step in my artistic development was a course at Abbazia Tre Fontane in Rome in 2008, where I honed my techniques and gained new insights. Further refining my skills, I attended a gilding course at the School of Arts Valletta.

The Essence of a Holy Icon

While an icon can be appreciated as a piece of art, its true significance lies in its spiritual function. An unblessed icon is incomplete; it misses the core essence of a Holy Icon, which is to serve as a focal point for prayer and reverence. It is crucial to understand that we revere Icons; we do not adore them. The act of blessing transforms a painting into a sacred object for devotion.

Prayer, Meditation, and Tradition

My work is deeply rooted in the strict adherence to Byzantine traditions, a value in itself. While other artists create icons, my commitment to these ancient rules ensures authenticity. Furthermore, I use only the highest quality materials, including traditional egg tempera and 23.75 Karat gold leaf, combined with a practice of prayer and meditation that infuses the art itself. This holistic approach sets my icons apart, blending spiritual intention with artistic mastery.

"I pray that those who commission my icons, for whom I am thankful, make the transition from a piece of painting to a Holy Icon by getting it blessed."

Joe Vella

Let's Connect

Thank you for your interest in my work. I am grateful for the opportunity to create sacred art that serves as a bridge between the earthly and the divine.