When it comes to preserving the beauty and history encapsulated in stained glass, one company stands out in Colorado: Scottish Stained Glass. Founded by Martin Faith, this business has evolved from its humble beginnings in a coffee shop to become a leading force in stained glass restoration and creation.
A Stained Glass Odyssey
Martin Faith's journey began with a simple observation: the high price of an unremarkable stained glass piece. This sparked an idea that would transform into a thriving business. Over three decades, Scottish Stained Glass has not only crafted custom windows for local homes but has also undertaken significant restoration projects, preserving the historical integrity of churches and buildings across the country.
Preserving History, One Window at a Time
The company's impact is evident in iconic Colorado locations, from the Mother Cabrini Shrine in Golden to Temple Emanuel in Denver. One of their most notable projects involved restoring windows for the Vernon AME Church, a survivor of the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921. To commemorate this tragic event's 100th anniversary, Scottish Stained Glass donated a custom "Legacy" window, honoring the church's past and its resilience.
A Recognition Well-Deserved
Faith's dedication to his craft was recognized when he was named Colorado's Small Business Person of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration. This award underscores the impact of his work, which extends beyond mere business success. It's a testament to his passion for stained glass, a love that began in childhood, gazing up at the vibrant windows in church.
From Glasgow to Colorado: A Cultural Exchange
In college, Martin's path took an unexpected turn when he was recruited into the replacement vinyl window business. This experience highlighted the cultural significance of stained glass in Glasgow, where historic homes often featured beautiful, artistic panels. As these older windows were replaced, a piece of Glasgow's cultural heritage was at risk of being lost. Faith's decision to store these panels, rather than discard them, laid the foundation for his business.
Pushing the Boundaries of Stained Glass Art
Under the guidance of conservator and master glass painter Maria Valentina Sheets, Scottish Stained Glass is pushing the boundaries of stained glass art. Sheets is renowned for her hand-painted, kiln-fired stained glasswork and a technique called Vitreonics, which creates incredibly realistic images. One notable collaboration between Faith and Sheets resulted in a stunning David Bowie polyptych, capturing the artist's essence in vivid colors.
Adapting and Thriving in a Changing World
The pandemic presented challenges, but Scottish Stained Glass adapted. By boosting their online presence and utilizing Zoom consultations, they expanded their market and pursued major commissions across the country. This shift in business strategy, coupled with an SBA loan, allowed the company to purchase a larger building, facilitating their growth and expansion.
Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future
The restoration of the Mother Cabrini Shrine's windows is a testament to Scottish Stained Glass' expertise. Despite being relatively young in stained glass years, these windows had endured the harsh Colorado weather, leading to a structural collapse. The company's meticulous restoration process, involving delicate cleaning and the use of a highly durable modern matrix, ensured the windows' longevity for another century.
Customized Creations
At the Deer Creek Church in Littleton, Scottish Stained Glass embraced a highly customized design approach. The congregation's desire to let natural light back into the sanctuary, after years of blocking the east-facing windows due to intense sunlight, led to a unique collaboration. Sheets' design incorporated themes of word, water, bread, wine, and prayer into soft, abstract forms, resulting in a style that is truly one-of-a-kind for the church.
In conclusion, Scottish Stained Glass is not just a business; it's a custodian of history and a champion of artistic expression. Through their work, they preserve the past while pushing the boundaries of stained glass art, ensuring its relevance and beauty for generations to come.
