Holy Icon

"Voyage of Warmth," acrylic on gesso board, Bishop Maxim, 2024

Created on February 17, 2024, this acrylic painting on the gesso board captures a serene yet profound moment at sea. The viewer’s gaze is drawn to a solitary boat, its sails unfurled, painted a vibrant red that contrasts starkly against the cool, muted tones of a frozen island. This island, an embodiment of isolation and rigidity, stands as a heart of stone amidst the vastness of the ocean. Above, the sky offers just a glimpse of the sun, a subtle nod to hope and renewal. The red sails of the boat symbolize the warmth of life and passion, navigating through the cold, unyielding challenges. This scene is not merely a depiction of a physical journey but a metaphorical voyage toward transformation and awakening. This “Voyage of Warmth” eloquently speaks to the power of resilience, love, and the eternal quest for inner change, bearing the promise of renewal to the frozen recesses of the soul.

"This recent painting by Bishop Maxim uniquely blends elements of both the New England (American) Coast and the British Coast, aligning itself with the great literary traditions of both America and Britain."
- Valerie Glover

"A captivating image of serene and spacious stillness, gliding through silent waters, past glaciers, surrounded by warmth peeking through sky and sea to form an enveloping womb. The tiny bright red sails evoke the pilgrim heart seeking the Spirit’s flame to pass through even in the coldest and loneliest of deserted places. Hesychia! This painting had the effect of evoking inside me stillness and strange, gentle attention focused by the bright red sailing vessel. It created an inner landscape inviting the silence and attention within."
- Stephen Muse