If you missed the recent exhibition Old World Icons, an exhibition by Vio Vlad, which appeared at The Art of Wonder in Ryde, you can still view the works online until 15th March 2026.
The virtual presentation offers continued access to a body of work that many visitors first encountered in person.
Exploring sacred themes
The exhibition presents a collection of hand-painted Orthodox icons that explore the tension between divine silence and human longing.
Each piece invites quiet contemplation at a time when daily life rarely slows down.
An artist’s background
Vio Vlad was born in Brasov, Romania, where he studied History and Philosophy before going on to teach History and the History of Art at college level. He’s lived in the UK since 1989 and in Ryde from 2013.
His interest in Orthodox icons began in childhood, inspired by the icons displayed on his grandmother’s walls, and developed alongside his formal studies of art and tradition.
Vio Vlad said,
“I’m proud to say that my icons are part of private collections in the USA, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and Romania. One of my glass icons was purchased by Princess Alexandra of Romania 30 years ago.
“Over the years, I have painted several icons and decided to share my work more widely, hoping it will be both successful and appreciated.”
A life of craft and continuity
Now retired and living on the Isle of Wight, Vio has painted icons for more than 40 years.
As a former carpenter, he continues to work with his hands, creating icons in a traditional antique style influenced by Transylvanian and Byzantine masters, with a focus on authentic techniques and the enduring qualities of Orthodox sacred art.
You can view the online exhibition by visiting the ArtSpaces Website.
