- "St. Silouan the Athonite", acrylic on canvas, Bishop Maxim, 2023
In “St. Silouan the Athonite,” the artist skillfully unravels the profound journey of Elder St. Silouan. From his modest origins in Russia to his spiritual ascent on the Holy Mountain through asceticism, the painting pays homage to Byzantine art with its color palette. St. Silouan’s humble attire mirrors his simple way of life, emphasizing detachment from worldly possessions. The artist captures the monk’s deep understanding of humanity, born from moments of supplication and a sense of divine abandonment, resulting in a life guided by grace.
The artist captures the monk's profound realization of the human condition, depicting the Elder after moments of supplication and the profound sense of abandonment that ultimately led him to live by divine grace. The painting exquisitely juxtaposes heroism and compassion, evoking deep feelings within the viewer. This artwork speaks to the enduring quest of some rare persons among us in search of the love of God. It serves as a poignant reminder of the profound insights and solace that can be found amid the complexities of modern life, offering a timeless message of hope and inspiration.
This is an Original Piece of art by Bishop Maxim of the Eastern Diocese of the Serbian Orthodox Church
About Bishop Maxim:
Bishop Maxim (Vasiljevic) was elected Bishop of Los Angeles and the Western American Diocese of the Serbian Orthodox Church in 2006. He graduated from the Faculty of Orthodox Theology, University of Belgrade, in 1993. He completed his Master of Theology at the University of Athens in 1996, and then three years later, in 1999, at the same university, he defended his doctorate in the field of Dogmatics and Patristics. He worked for one year on his post-doctorate in Paris and the Sorbonne in 2003-04, in the field of Byzantine History and Hagiography. During this time, he also delved in the theory and practical application of painting at the French Academy of Fine Arts in Paris. Bishop Maxim is a professor of Patristics and was teaching Christian Anthropology, Byzantine Philosophy, Canon Law, and Dogmatics at various universities and schools. He speaks Greek, French, Russian, and English. He was the editor of “Theology” – Journal of the Faculty of Orthodox Theology, University of Belgrade. He also leads the Diocesan school of iconography. Bishop Maxim’s scholarly books, studies, and articles include essays on Holy Fathers and Saints; he has also written on the hagiographical and iconographical themes.
Bishop Maxim (Vasiljevic) was elected Bishop of Los Angeles and the Western American Diocese of the Serbian Orthodox Church in 2006. He graduated from the Faculty of Orthodox Theology, University of Belgrade, in 1993. He completed his Master of Theology at the University of Athens in 1996, and then three years later, in 1999, at the same university, he defended his doctorate in the field of Dogmatics and Patristics. He worked for one year on his post-doctorate in Paris and the Sorbonne in 2003-04, in the field of Byzantine History and Hagiography. During this time, he also delved in the theory and practical application of painting at the French Academy of Fine Arts in Paris. Bishop Maxim is a professor of Patristics and was teaching Christian Anthropology, Byzantine Philosophy, Canon Law, and Dogmatics at various universities and schools. He speaks Greek, French, Russian, and English. He was the editor of “Theology” – Journal of the Faculty of Orthodox Theology, University of Belgrade. He also leads the Diocesan school of iconography. Bishop Maxim’s scholarly books, studies, and articles include essays on Holy Fathers and Saints; he has also written on the hagiographical and iconographical themes.
