Christabel’s work is inspired by sacred iconographic exemplars, both ancient and contemporary. In particular, the unique iconography of St Sophrony the Athonite (20th century), whose work was the focus of her doctoral research, and the arts of Britain and Ireland from the late antique and early medieval periods.
Her work is made with prayer, devotion and meticulous research, and is created using carefully hand-prepared materials, including icon panels and vellum, mineral and earth pigments for the watercolour and egg tempera paints, soft pastels, inks, 24 carat gold leaf, fine silver and precious gemstones.
QEST funding enabled Christabel to further her studies in traditional manuscript illumination, and to undertake the GIA Accredited Jewellery Professional Diploma and other studies in gemmology. She completed her PhD at The Prince’s Foundation, School of Traditional Arts (sponsored by the A. G. Leventis Foundation) where she also teaches, helping future generations of practitioners to develop their work. As well as continuing her artistic practice, Christabel currently works in the School’s doctoral research department as an adviser in iconography and traditional artistic methods.
