Stained Glass Artist

How does one become a stained glass artist?

Interesting question.

I have seldom thought of writing about my career path, having surrendered long ago to the joy of the journey.

Trusting in the universe as I know now but blind determination as I thought then.

Reflecting upon my past I realized my life thus far does make for an interesting read; a successful story of growth, perseverance and personal achievement. Next, how do I share this, as I have not yet tried my hand at writing. So.....

Born in Edmonton, Alberta, I first began studying the art form of working and creating with glass in 1977. My vocation in the stained glass field was not one which was thought about, pondered over, or planned out in any way that I was aware of. Later I was to find my background of working with artistic and creative endeavors from childhood would enable me to successfully develop the discipline required to master the working intricacies of the glass medium. Sketching, knitting, crocheting, bead work, cutting and pasting pictures, sewing, macramé; all these hobbies helped develop a dexterity and a focus which expanded my skills.

My first encounter with a piece of stained glass was through a gift a friend had received; I could not believe how drawn I was to that piece of art.

I found myself totally amazed, feeling and loving the movement of the colors, the simplicity of design and the resulting wonderment of the beauty and excitement it was inspiring within me. I could honestly "feel" the piece of glass. That was it. I was hooked. Simple, I knew without a doubt I was going to learn how to do this.

I got books from the libraries, found glass suppliers in Vancouver and Toronto, and began my self-taught exploration into the depths of how to work with and express my creativity through this new medium. It was both fun and challenging at the same time, giving me a sense of gratification at the end of the day. I entered the wondrous place of 'no time', until suddenly 26 years had gone by!

There was a time in my life I found myself in a horrendous position I would not have imagined. A single parent, bankrupt, with three children and no conceivable way for me to earn my way. Stained glass was a hobby, and selling products part time as a beauty consultant was bringing me what I would call "mad money" and I don't mean in a "frivolous" way! Definitely not enough to cover the costs of this new situation I was in. No matter how hard I seemed to work at juggling all the hats I was wearing, I couldn't get ends to meet. So one particularly frustrating day, I prayed about what in the heck I was supposed to do about this dilemma I was in.

I was really about to find out that Spirit does work in strange ways, I was guided to toss a coin to decide which avenue I was going to pursue and then apply all my time and energy to that one choice...Well…here I am!

The interesting thing about this process of choice was everything I had learned from all the previous experiences in my life came into play; and through a bit of ingenuity and a lot of hard work, I have been able to meet all the obstacles which have come up over the years. Even the typing and business courses I took in school served me well when running my own business.

Since that one decisive moment of choice, I have worked full-time as an artist, supported and raised my wonderful children while doing something which brings me both satisfaction and fulfillment.

I continued to study and follow my passions and interests all of which I have been able to work into my Glass creations.

An Interior design course gave me insights in creating harmony through the balancing of color tones and hues, skills which have contributed to my ability to express a unique finished product in glass.

Certification in Aromatherapy, becoming a Reiki Master/Teacher, working with the body's Chakra system, gaining an understanding of the use and gifts of working with the Circle Mandala for personal healing, are all pursuits which have allowed me to expand the base of my work by creating useful pieces. Ones which inspire others.

I believe I am now at yet another turning point, as my career in Glass is calling for me to shift and expand once more. Teaching seems to be the way the road is now turning……on and on and on…… it is a wonderful journey.

By Donna Doherty