Julie White
The history of stained glass goes back to ancient times. Stained glass originally served to teach churchgoers about biblical history. Some of the earliest examples of colorful glass originated in Mesopotamia in the ancient Middle East. Colored glass was found in the city of Nineveh in ancient Assyria. It dates to the seventh century B.C. and is also found in archaeological sites in Egypt and Rome. While some glass does date to the 600s, stained glass production reached its height in the period of 1150 to 1500 in England and the rest of Europe.
Today stained glass artists still create windows and panels depicting scenes or stories. However, all sorts of different forms of art are fashioned from stained glass. Suncatchers come in almost any shape or design imaginable. Plant stakes featuring flowers, bees, and butterflies are popular. In addition, three-dimensional works are also favorites.
And in the future? You can create your very own beautiful works of art when you join the Robson Ranch Stained Glass Club! Sandi Martin teaches the beginner classes, and you can sign up for the next scheduled class by emailing her at smteaches3@aol.com.