I often get the question, “How do you get your ideas for custom stained glass?” The answer is simple. Custom design is a collaborative effort between customer and artist. The discussion starts with an assessment of the customer’s needs and objectives. Are they just trying to beautify their home by adding color? Are we trying to match and coordinate with existing artwork or glass art in the home? Do they have a need for privacy? Are they trying to blot out the eyesore of the neighbors’ house, garage or garbage cans?
The art glass itself can lead to design inspiration!
Once we determine their functional requirements, we can move on to elements of style and design. This is so personal, that each project is unique. I have to admit – it’s one of the things I most enjoy about doing this work. I am 98 percent sure they are going to love the piece, as they have had such a personal creative investment in the development of it, and so I don’t have to worry.
Doug and Jodi had a real need to blot out the view of a neighbors HVAC unit, and turned to stained glass for their picture window. The other artwork in the room and their love for a 100-year old oak tree in their front yard set the theme. And, with Jodi’s affinity for color in her decor, it was a lot of fun choosing material – vibrant and rich! Check out the image of the perfect sheet of art glass from Kokomo Opalescent Glass! Who wouldn’t be inpired!
Now the trick was to use this glass strategically to fit in with the art. A detailed hand drawn original was created and then the hours of work delicately cutting apart (“gasp”) this beautiful sheet and re-configuring it to tell the story.
I have to admit, although my process was sound – there were days while working with this piece flat “on the boards” that I worried about how it would look. Turning it up for the first time eliminated any doubt! And the light traveling through the work gave it it’s final character!
I have to admit, although my process was sound – there were days while working with this piece flat “on the boards” that I worried about how it would look. Turning it up for the first time eliminated any doubt! And the light traveling through the work gave it it’s final character!
In it’s forever home!
The process of creation is extremely rewarding. And it often leads to more inspiration for other projects. (I have a second idea fully drawn for the same project and I would just love to find the time to commit it to glass!) I may share that one with you in another post.
