Stained Glass Artist

Stained glass artists create designs for art objects made of glass, such as windows, bottles, bulbs, dishes and lampshades. They use both plate and window glass and scraps of safety glass from such items as windshields.

Stained glass artists study the shape of the window and integrate practical requirements with their knowledge of symbolic images and glass cutting. They make a full size working pattern and select and cut the glass according to the designed pattern. This can only occur once the cost has been estimated. The stained glass artist then assembles all the pieces and secures them in place. The glass is then stained or painted and fired in order to stabilise the colours. The stained glass artist then installs the completed window.

Personal Requirements

artistic and imaginative
creative, but practically inclined
patient, persevering, self-disciplined and selfmotivated
perceptive and able to transform perceptions into a work of art
good sense of form, design and colour
dedicated to this artistic form of craft
able to handle frustration, criticism and rejection
willing to work hard
manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination
good knowledge of religious and other symbols
able to visualise objects three-dimensionally

How to Enter

Schooling & School Subjects

Compulsory Subjects: Art or a related subjects is highly recommended
Recommended subjects: Art, Design Studies, Engineering and Graphic Design

Additional:

An art portfolio is required to demonstrate your creativity, abilities and commitment.
If you intend studying towards a degree in Fine Art at university, you will need to a Bachelor's pass in matric. If you intend studying a diploma in an art-related field, then you will need a Diploma pass in matric.
Meet the admission requirements (APS) set by the university or requirements set by the college.

What to Study

In-service training can be provided by an experienced stained glass artist.

Certificate and short courses: There are various courses offered at colleges and specialised art colleges, such as a Certificate in Art.

Employment