Our Journey with the Battle Creek Tabernacle’s Stained Glass Window
At Salt Lake City Stained Glass, we had the honor of embarking on a remarkable journey, one that merged art, history, and faith. This journey was marked by dedication, creativity, and a deep appreciation for the heritage of the Battle Creek Tabernacle. We’re excited to share the story of our recent project – a magnificent stained glass window that has added an extra layer of splendor to the church’s rich history.
A Church Steeped in History
The Battle Creek Tabernacle, nestled in the heart of Battle Creek, Michigan, carries a legacy that spans more than a century. Founded in 1852, the church’s story is intertwined with pivotal moments in the history of the Seventh-day Adventist movement. For us, working on a project for such a historically significant church was an immense privilege. The responsibility to contribute to this living history weighed on our hearts, and it fueled our commitment to create something truly extraordinary.
A Window into the Past
Our journey began when the church made the decision to enhance its interior with a stunning stained glass window. The challenge was unique. The church’s age and historical value meant that making structural changes to add a new window was not an option. The solution needed to respect and preserve the integrity of the building.
Preserving the Past, Illuminating the Future
Respecting the historic architecture and preserving the essence of the Tabernacle was of paramount importance. We couldn’t just cut a hole in the wall to create a window. The artistry and history of the existing building had to be maintained. This was our first challenge, and it required a thoughtful approach.
Our creative solution was to install the stained glass window on the interior of the church. This approach allowed us to bring the beauty of stained glass into the space without altering the exterior. The challenge now lay in making it appear as if the sunlight was streaming through the glass, creating a harmonious and awe-inspiring atmosphere inside the church.
A Masterpiece in the Making
The design of the stained glass window was pivotal. For inspiration, the church turned to “The Rescue,” a masterpiece by renowned artist Nathan Greene. Our talented artisans, in collaboration with the church, embarked on the intricate task of translating Greene’s work into stained glass.
This conversion was a meticulous process. We needed to adapt the colors and nuances to ensure they would shine beautifully with light streaming through. The result was a palette of vivid, captivating colors that brought “The Rescue” to life in a way that was nothing short of breathtaking. We continually consulted with the church to ensure their vision was brought to life with each brushstroke of color.
Illuminating the Divine
Incorporating a backlit lighting system was a key aspect of our project. The challenge here was to illuminate the stained glass in such a way that it resembled natural sunlight filtering through. We meticulously installed low-voltage LED panels that delivered a gentle, even glow. This ensured that the entire stained glass window was brilliantly illuminated without any harsh spots or overly intense light.
Our collaboration with an on-site electrician was crucial. Together, we devised a brilliant solution for concealing the wiring. By drilling a discreet hole through the wall and running the wires along a concealed conduit, we achieved a seamless and immaculate look. No visible wires or elements disrupted the aesthetics.
The Installation: A Culmination of Art and Precision
To evenly distribute the weight of the stained glass, we fabricated a custom metal frame. The frame was designed to match the color of the existing stained glass windows in the church. We then secured the frame to the wall by drilling holes and adding eight inch steel plates to the outside. Then, the frame was fastened to the plates, allowing it to be supported by the wall itself.
With the stained glass, metal framing, and lighting system in place, the final phase was the installation. Each panel was carefully secured within the custom-made metal frame. Our team worked tirelessly to ensure that every piece fell into place with exact precision.
A Priceless Experience
The result of this remarkable collaboration was a sight to behold. The Battle Creek Tabernacle was transformed, with its blank wall now adorned with an enchanting work of art. The radiant colors in the stained glass bathed the church in a soft, luminous glow. The intricate details and artistry of “The Rescue” captivated everyone who entered.
This project was an embodiment of faith, history, and artistry coming together to create something timeless. We are grateful to the Battle Creek Tabernacle for entrusting us with this extraordinary project, one that will be cherished for generations to come.
In conclusion, our journey with the Battle Creek Tabernacle was not just about creating a stained glass window; it was a profound, collaborative effort to celebrate a rich history and illuminate the future.
Martin Faith
Martin Faith is a talented artist, visionary, and collector of antique stained glass windows. Prior to moving to the United States, Martin worked as a stained glass artisan in Glasgow. There, he spent many years cultivating his skills and learning the techniques and history behind the centuries old art form. Today, he is the proud owner of Salt Lake City Stained Glass, the largest and most highly renowned stained glass studio in Utah. Over the past 30 years, Martin and his team have produced over 50,000 stained and leaded glass windows ranging in size, style, and appearance. His company has been highlighted on various media outlets including HGTV, the DIY Network, CBS, and NBC.
