Custom Designs By Artist Russell Joy
         
           

 
Bible Stories Told Through a Glass, Clearly ...continued
by Dr. Gary Gray

is the church window that often leaves the most lasting impression of a church building. If they have inspired, or told the biblical story, the investment has become fruitful.

Perpetuation – To be remembered past one's lifetime is a basic human need. Probably 50% or more of stained glass windows have been given in remembrance of a loved one. Since stained glass can be periodically restored (protected and insulated from the elements), the window and the name can endure far into the future.

Choosing a new stained glass – The creation of new stained glass can be a wonderful adventure, especially if your committee has an early understanding about the five elements that make up a good stained glass design. This process will assure you of acquiring a unique stained glass design with a specific message for your congregation and building.

Theme – Choosing the theme or subject of a stained glass design is the central element of your decision. Biblical scenes continue to dominate the themes chosen in the 21st century. Historical, regional and denominational themes have also been popular and appropriate. Even the most abstract windows can display themes such as the creation or a sunrise.

Design style – Modern artists often still use pictorial or medallions to focus their theme, along with simple backgrounds in traditional, contemporary or abstract form for the remaining space. Fortunately for those who do desire the traditional biblical pictorial scene, there are a few modern artists who can paint “flesh” in the same style and manner as those great European and American artists of a century ago.

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Shape – Window shape should be considered early in the process so this element, where possible, is influenced by the theme and design style, rather than the other way around. A designer can reinforce the theme of the windows through their shape. A full wall of stained glass, for example, evokes a decidedly different feeling for the worshiper than does a series of Gothic or circular windows. Involve the architect early in any discussion with the church committee to ensure that the chosen window shape fits the overall building design. Other factors such as size, number and placement should also be considered.

Color – Unlike the colors selected for carpeting, pew cushions and choir robes, those chosen for the stained-glass windows cannot be readily changed. The colors in your windows will affect the congregation for as long as that sanctuary is used. Since hues affect our emotions – some evoke peace, others strength and power – select your colors carefully. One rule of thumb: Stick with more basic colors and avoid trendy ones. Also, be careful about the depth. Too little color can cause a glare problem; too much color depth can make the sanctuary dark and dreary.

Budget – What happens when your committee’s aesthetic tastes call for a $320-per-square-foot design while your budget has allotted only $80? Compromise will likely be necessary; either you go for a simpler design, smaller windows or an increase in budget. Many churches have found that funding stained-glass windows is easier than raising funds or any other church program or object such as a roof or carpet. People respond readily to funding stained-glass windows and often give as a memorial to a loved one.

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