Monnci Art exhibition in Naples presented three hand-painted icons by Monika Żurowska during the international “ABISSI IN SUPERFICIE” exhibition.
I am delighted to share that my work is being presented at the international contemporary art exhibition “ABISSI IN SUPERFICIE”, held in Naples from 10 to 24 July 2026.
The exhibition is organised by OASI | Art Exhibitions & Cultural Projects and curated by Maria Cristina Bianchi. The artworks are displayed in the unique sacred setting of the Church of Santa Maria di Portosalvo in Naples.
Taking part in this exhibition is especially meaningful to me. Presenting my icons inside a historic Italian church allows their spiritual and contemplative character to unfold in a space that naturally resonates with the light of gold, the symbolism of colour and the silence embedded in the creative process.
Icons Presented at the Exhibition in Naples
Monnci Art exhibition in Naples presented three hand-painted icons by Monika Żurowska during the international “ABISSI IN SUPERFICIE” exhibition.
- Our Lady of Kazan, interpreted through my own artistic vision,
- The Holy Trinity, inspired by the icon of Andrei Rublev,
- Eleusa, also known as the Virgin of Tenderness.
Each artwork was created by hand on a wooden panel using traditional icon-painting techniques. My process includes natural pigments, egg tempera and genuine gold leaf.
Gold in my icons is not merely decorative. It symbolises light, eternity and a reality that transcends the material world. Its surface changes according to the angle of view and the surrounding light, allowing the icon to remain in constant dialogue with both the space and the viewer.
Traditional Icon Painting in a Contemporary Interpretation
In my work, I remain in dialogue with the centuries-old tradition of sacred art while also searching for my own artistic language. I value both the principles of the iconographic canon and the individual sensitivity through which I can speak about light, closeness, silence and spiritual presence.
The creation of each icon is a slow and multi-stage process. It involves preparing the wooden panel, drawing the composition, applying successive layers of egg tempera, modelling garments and faces, gilding and protecting the finished surface.
This deliberate slowness is an essential part of my practice. It allows me to focus on detail and to preserve respect for the materials, symbolism and spiritual significance of the represented figure.
An Exhibition in the Unique Setting of Naples
Naples is a city filled with contrasts, intense colours, light and history. Its art and architecture have long combined drama with spirituality. Presenting my work here has therefore been an especially moving experience.
Seeing the icons displayed inside the Church of Santa Maria di Portosalvo was particularly meaningful. Their gilded surfaces respond to the changing light of the interior, emphasising their contemplative character.
The exhibition also created an opportunity to meet artists representing different countries, techniques and approaches to contemporary art. Each artwork tells its own story, while the exhibition as a whole creates a space for dialogue between tradition, modernity and the personal experiences of the participating artists.
An Important Stage in My Artistic Journey
My participation in the “ABISSI IN SUPERFICIE” exhibition marks another important stage in my artistic development and offers an opportunity to present Polish icon painting to an international audience.
It also confirms that the traditional icon can remain present within the contemporary art world and speak to viewers regardless of their cultural background or previous experience with sacred art.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to OASI | Art Exhibitions & Cultural Projects, curator Maria Cristina Bianchi, and everyone involved in preparing the exhibition for the invitation, trust and opportunity to present my artworks in Naples.
The Monnci Art exhibition in Naples marked an important stage in my artistic journey and introduced my icon painting to an international audience.
Exhibition Details
Title: ABISSI IN SUPERFICIE
Venue: Church of Santa Maria di Portosalvo, Naples, Italy
Dates: 10–24 July 2026
Organiser: OASI | Art Exhibitions & Cultural Projects
Curator: Maria Cristina Bianchi
Artist: Monika Żurowska – Monnci Art
I also invite you to explore the other hand-painted icons in my gallery and to contact me regarding original artworks and individual commissions.
