Stained Glass

One morning as I walked into the living room I was greeted by dancing coloured specks of light on the walls and ceiling.  The light through the front window had touched the coloured glass 'hurricaine candle lamp' [yes, some of you will recognize it as being from Partylite] resulting in a wonderful display of light - made more vivid since our living and dining room are a dark colour. 

I often put this lamp near the window on evenings when we are expecting company to welcome them.  The reflections are so warm and lovely. One day it was near the window with a vase of tulips ....  which resulted in this painting which kept me busy Christmas week.


I love stained glass, and one Christmas as a present to ourselves, Doug and I designed a pattern and chose glass for a window to be made for one of those typical empty spaces between hall and living room, in houses of our vintage.  Below is a picture of this window which I love.


Stained glass is rather bland without light - but it is amazing the beauty a simple ray of light brings out of the glass. Light from a candle within or light from behind results in a many coloured display of dancing images that fill our minds with many mysterious and faraway thoughts.


This poem by Susanne Cooper captures some of the feelings stain glass calls forth from within us. You can check out her stained glass & poetry at:  http://www.suzannecooper.com/

IN HUSHED CATHEDRALS

In hushed cathedrals

vivid images dance on ancient

stone floors worn smooth by kneeling.

Sunlight through

bits of colored glass

weaving patterns

on faces of worshipers.

Singing praises to the sun.

Colors dance,

soothing eyes and warming souls.

In hushed cathedrals

vivid images dance on ancient

stone floors worn smooth by kneeling.

Someone.

Unknown.

Craftsmen of ages past,

leaving legacies of

beauty in glass.

Generations blend

in timeless marches,

worshiping, awed,

inspired by ancient glass.

Generations sharing unknown bonds,

embraced by arms of colored light.