Wow Design

The Art of Glass - Sarah Honeyman Stained Glass

by Athole Murray Fleming

Ever since I can remember, I have always loved the beauty of stained glass windows. As far back as my first ever art day trip to Glasgow Cathedral in around 1968, I have been inspired by their colour and light.

Even now as a graphic designer (away from the publishing bit), I have often used the uplifting vision of stained glass for my thematic creations. Locally, the River Caffe is one such example of this effect.

Christina and I have both loved stained glass, so it was quite a delight recently when we were able to commission our very own window for our reception hall. We met with Sarah Honeyman via the Creative Perthshire organisation, and our little window dream became reality.

Here are a few visions designed by Sarah…

There are many houses with good-sized reception vestibules, and if the house has a name, what better way than to illuminate your reception with the house name in stained glass. This 'above the door' window was created for Eleanor Bryant at their Druids Park home in Murthly.
	Also, in the dinning room at Eleanor's house she has a larger 6-foot window which dominates and brings the garden and surrounding trees into the room. This becomes a very natural focal point at the end a quite a sizeable dining table. The design reflects the trees and nature outside while at the same time allowing the viewer clear sight of the exterior garden.
For this window, I dropped in to see Liz Ritchie at her home in Perth, on the banks of the Tay near Bridgend. This is quite a small window which is situated beside stairs leading down to the rear of the house which overlooks the Tay and the South Inch on the opposite bank. Sarah's design again reflects the location of the house with salmon and water being embroidered into the texture of the glass.
	This is our very own recent commission from Sarah, which she designed to reflect where we live. The forest, hills, river Tay and even etched birds and a local bat are included. It really is bit special getting your own stained glass window designed, as it will always be unique to you.