Modern glass art with symbolic depth
A new ensemble of modern church windows has been created in the New Apostolic Church in Porta Westfalica:
Two floor-to-ceiling windows on either side of the altar – each measuring 0.90 x 5.60 meters – are dedicated to the symbolic representation of the four biblical elements of creation: Fire, Water, Earth and Air. In the center of the sanctuary, a luminous cross made of hand-blown glass rises behind the altar – a powerful symbol and radiant focal point of the composition.
The artistic church glazing is complemented by a choir window in the gallery (2.50 x 2.50 meters), which takes up and continues the imagery and symbolism of the altar windows.
Harmony of glass art and architecture
The church windows blend harmoniously into the clear, modern architecture of the church interior and consciously follow the tradition of figure-free design. The design creates a special suction effect – carried by an exciting directional dynamic:
At the bottom, the movement flows out from the altar into the congregation; at the top, it returns to the shining cross. This creative movement reflects a central spiritual idea: the content of faith works outwards into society – and at the same time inwards, into the heart of each individual.
Luminous images – depth, technology and meaning
The church windows unfold an intense pictorial effect – full of light, color and spatial depth. Each of them looks like an independent, luminous work of art that blends harmoniously into the church interior and at the same time radiates a quiet power. The depiction of the four elements of creation brings that “special something” into the room – in contrast to the calm presence of the cross and the clear architecture.
This special effect is the result of a sophisticated artistic and technical implementation: the painting was executed on both levels of the double-glazed window surfaces and then precisely assembled. This creates a fascinating depth effect – the impression changes depending on the incidence of light, both from inside and outside. The pictures live with the light.
The watercolor-like lightness was transferred to the glass using a combination of different techniques: The motifs were applied with large brushes using traditional glass painting techniques. One of the two panes was also sandblasted – this subtly changes the glass surface, the colors react differently and create a soft, painterly effect. Using the airbrush technique, certain areas of color were additionally saturated and then baked in the oven – for a lasting, intense luminosity.
The second, frosted pane visually separates the interior from the exterior – without taking away light. On the contrary: the windows really shine, especially in diffuse daylight, and their colors remain vibrant and vivid – whatever the weather.
Process
From the first impulse to the finished design
The first ideas for the design of the stained glass windows came about quite unpretentiously – at the kitchen table. But it soon became clear that it would take more than just a sketch. In my intensive exploration of space, architecture and artistic expression, I found inspiration in the work of Tadao Ando. His expressive ink drawings in particular – powerful circles full of movement and harmony – left a deep impression.
The depiction of the elements of creation should also carry this impression of flow, tension and harmony. The final design was created with music and a view of the outdoors – using watercolor, acrylic and fine lines of black ink, applied with a goose feather. The four independent window paintings developed from an overall picture.
The cross – a symbol of hope
At the center of the church glazing is the cross – made from hand-blown genuine antique glass from the Lamberts glassworks in Waldsassen. This special glass is created by rolling hollow glass into flat glass and is characterized by characteristic air bubbles, streaks and planing marks. They give the cross a unique vibrancy and luminosity. As a radiant focal point and symbol of Christ, it stands for hope, strength and presence – in the room and in the spiritual message.
Implementation
Pictures from the construction phase
