An icon is a religious work of art, most commonly a flat panel painting depicting a holy being or object. A cultural icon is an object that represents some aspect of the values, norms or ideals. They are not simply artworks; an icon is a sacred image used in religious devotion. Although especially associated with portrait-style images concentrating on one or two main figures, the term also covers most religious images in a variety of artistic media produced by Eastern Christianity, including narrative scenes, usually from the Bible or the lives of saints. A cultural icon is a person or an artifact that is identified by members of a culture as representative of that culture. The process of identification is subjective, and "icons" are judged by the extent to which they can be seen as an authentic symbol of that culture. In popular culture and elsewhere, the term "iconic" is used to describe a wide range of people, places, and things.

A pop icon is a celebrity, character, or object whose exposure in pop culture constitutes a defining characteristic of a given society or era. The categorization is usually associated with elements such as longevity, universality, and distinction. Some historic figures are recognized as having reached "pop icon" status during their era, and such status may continue into the present. Pop icons of previous eras include Marie Antoinette, Cleopatra, Mozart and Guy Fawkes. A number of pop icons are distinguished for having died at a young age. These include James Dean, Jimi Hendrix, Freddie Mercury, Janis Joplin, and Marilyn Monroe among others who emphasize the appreciation of dying young and forever remain beautiful. Icons last forever like diamonds in the sky they shine like stars in the universe.

      My favourite icons are strong personalities, pioneers who have paved the way for others and taught us to fight the system and norms. Icons who encourage individuality and diversity above all. These icons are based on photos and headshots from the silent film era up to the 1960´s Their common read thread is that they have made a lasting impression in my mind and hopefully yours. This is a tribute to some of the greatest stars of early cinema.

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