Stained Glass Dallas’ Masterpiece for Battle Creek Tabernacle

A cherished church with roots dating back to the mid-19th century, the Battle Creek Tabernacle recently embarked on a transformative journey. They partnered with Stained Glass Dallas to create a breathtaking set of stained glass windows that illuminate the congregation’s spiritual journey.

Harmony in Design and Artistry

The beauty of this project lay not only in its end result but also in the harmonious collaboration between the church, our team, and everyone involved.

Designing the Divine

At the heart of this endeavor was the selection of an evocative design, “The Rescue” by acclaimed painter Nathan Greene. With the artist’s blessing, Stained Glass Dallas’ master artisans embarked on the intricate task of translating the nuanced imagery and vibrant colors of the original artwork into stained glass. The challenge was to capture the essence of the painting and ensure it would come alive when bathed in the warm glow of natural light. Each hue, each detail, was recalibrated with precision to create a deeper, more saturated palette that breathed life into the masterpiece.

A Frame of Strength

The church’s century-old structure held great historical significance. Preserving its integrity was paramount. Stained Glass Dallas crafted a custom metal frame that did more than support the stained glass; it became an integral part of the artistic composition. Designed to match the existing stained glass windows in the church, the frame seamlessly blended with the historic aesthetics.

Ingenious Design

Installing such a grand work of art on an almost century-old wall presented unique structural challenges. The stained glass window, spanning approximately 15 feet in height and 14 feet in width and weighing around 1,000 pounds, needed a clever solution. Therefore, we divided the window into ten individually framed panels. Each panel was designed to distribute the weight evenly. This also made installing the stained glass much easier.

We also installed eight-inch steel plates on the exterior of the wall, providing sturdy support for the metal frame. The plates were painted to seamlessly blend with the existing brick, maintaining the church’s historical charm while reinforcing the structure.

Illuminating the Stained Glass

Perhaps the most intriguing facet of this project was the choice to use a backlit installation rather than cutting a new window. This creative decision was rooted in preserving the church’s architectural integrity. Our team designed a unique custom illumination system using low-voltage LED lighting. The backlit lighting system was designed to illuminate the stained glass, creating an effect reminiscent of sunlight streaming through. The backlit solution not only honored the original structure but added a touch of modern artistry to the church’s interior.

Concealment of Wires

We collaborated with an onsite electrician to bring our vision to life. The electrician played a crucial role in ensuring the wires remained hidden, leaving the church’s aesthetics untouched. They discreetly drilled a hole through the wall, connecting the wires to the LED panels. To maintain a seamless aesthetic, a conduit was discreetly run around the exterior of the building, leading the wires into a control room. This ensured the wiring remained out of sight, preserving the church’s historical charm while enhancing the artistic appeal.

A Testament to Faith and Artistry

The end result of this collaborative project is nothing short of breathtaking. What was once a plain wall in the Battle Creek Tabernacle now stands as a radiant work of art. The delicate colors beautifully illuminate the intricate details, paying homage to the church’s rich history and the enduring power of faith.

Stained Glass Dallas, in partnership with the Battle Creek Tabernacle, has left an indelible mark on this cherished place of worship. The stained glass windows serve as an enduring symbol of faith, history, and artistic brilliance, destined to inspire generations.