Educational, cultural and spiritual dimensions of glass icon painting in contemporary lower secondary school

Abstract

Abstract. The article examines the role of reverse glass icon painting in art education and in the holistic development of lower-secondary school students. It highlights the relationship between artistic development, spiritual formation, and the strengthening of cultural identity, while taking into account the psychopedagogical characteristics of students aged between eleven and fourteen. The study presents the origins and development of glass icon painting in Romania, its main traditional centers, the specific features of the reverse painting technique, and the symbolic meanings of color. It also emphasizes the formative value of this artistic activity in developing creativity, attention, patience, planning skills, and aesthetic sensitivity. Integrating glass icon painting into the educational process encourages a transdisciplinary approach and brings students closer to Romania’s spiritual and cultural heritage. Cooperation among school, family, and religious and cultural communities can support the authentic transmission of this valuable tradition.