Golden Eikonostasio

1996

Golden Eikonostasio, 1996. Stephen Antonakos (American, b. Greece, 1926–2013). Neon and gold leaf on wood panel (with metal box for electrical equipment); overall: 61 x 61 x 37 cm (24 x 24 x 14 9/16 in.); panel: 61 x 61 x 4.5 cm (24 x 24 x 1 3/4 in.); outer case: 32 x 32 x 37 cm (12 5/8 x 12 5/8 x 14 9/16 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of Agnes Gund 2015.81 Traditionally found in commercial signage, neon has been an essential medium in Stephen Antonakos's art since 1960. In Golden Eikonostasio, it emits a halo of colored light around a cross-like wooden panel leafed in gold. Through its use of gold and light, this abstract composition is reminiscent of Byzantine icon paintings, which were an enduring fascination for the artist. Byzantine icons are sacred images that typically depict Christ, the Virgin Mary, and other saints. Examples of such works can be found in the CMA's gallery 105. Stephen Antonakos's other neon works include entire "neon rooms," and mural-sized installations.