A Catholic Gift Shop Built by the Vasarmidis Family

Behind every Icon sold by Art of the Icon is a story that began over 40 years ago in Crete, when the Vasarmidis family first dedicated themselves to preserving traditional Orthodox iconography. Their small painting practice has since become a trusted name for people seeking authentic religious art, including collectors specifically looking for a genuine saint basil icon rather than a generic imitation.

The craftsmanship involved is deliberate and slow by design. Each Icon begins on hardwood, treated with eight coats of Gesso glue that must dry completely between applications, then a burlap canvas is added for the underlying line drawing. Gilding follows using pure silver and 24k gold leaf, giving the finished piece a depth and shine that cheaper alternatives simply cannot match. Because only three factories worldwide still uphold these traditional standards, the studio's continued work carries real significance for anyone who cares about preserving sacred art rather than settling for a paper-and-glue substitute. Shoppers often note how the weight and detail of a genuine Icon stand apart from anything mass produced, and many choose these pieces specifically because they're meant to last for decades, not seasons. Whether the occasion is a baptism, name day, or a personal moment of reflection, an Icon from this collection makes a gift with real substance behind it.