Landscape Matters Issue 4 FINAL - Flipbook - Page 25
meant for an individual traveller, perhaps lost at moments, that
allows a personal way of spiritual encounters.
Personal experiences and memories form the content of the
book. This is the editors’ choice and succeeds in grasping the
unique spiritual atmosphere of Mt. Athos which although committed to Orthodox beliefs at the same time stresses the importance of each individual’s vision and understanding. Thus,
such a holy place is open to personal truths and recollections
which are transformed into a common perception of Athos.
The book does not only rely on present day pilgrims and visitors. By including articles written as early as 1927 it succeeds
in providing the reader a much needed historical approach, as
well as a basis for comparison and critical appreciation relevant to changes that Mt Athos has undergone.
As an artist, I particularly enjoyed reading the article by Peter
Brian Desmond on his ventures trying to get into the details of
contemporary icon painting on Athos. An article, like so many
in the book, it does not merely provide information on his subject but relies extensively on personal and minute details of his
meetings with monks that made his pilgrimage even more vivid
and inspiring.
Of course contemporary iconography is not the only example
of art related to the Mount. Athos has managed to provide
inspiration for many artists worldwide and significantly enough
the publication focuses on artists like Doug Patterson, Derek
Simons and John Campbell. These help towards a visual understanding of the monastic state together of course with the
abundant photographic documentation by Roland Baetens
and many more, some of important historical significance.
In short, a publication that in terms of quality and content
should make editors, contributors as well as readers proud.
Markos Kampanis, artist.
www.markoskampanis.gr
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