The original clerestory windows at St. Mary’s were fabricated in the 1950’s onward by G. Maille of England, for whom one of our mentors worked at one time.  This meant that the style of design and painting was very familiar to us, and it was natural for us to continue the slightly stylised figures and sharp “glassy” painting that reads strongly from a distance and is especially important for ecclesiastical projects. Each window also contains symbolism and attributes pertinent to the saint depicted; we have to do our “homework” thoroughly to research and discover the best way to portray the subject. Each bay of five windows has been set a month of the year, and each saint depicted in it has his/her feast day in that month. To date we have created and installed 19 clerestory windows.  It is always a privilege working directly with the benefactors; discovering ways to incorporate elements into the design which reflect the family’s life and interests, and provide an enduring testimonial in the church.

“Gilroy Stained Glass has crafted and installed several windows at St. Mary’s Kerrisdale. I have been most impressed by their artistic and professional expertise, attention to detail and knowledge. Importantly John and Laura demonstrate genuine care and sensitivity to the benefactors; they know that their craft is about much more than glass.”  ~ The Very Rev. Kevin Dixon, Former Rector of St. Mary’s Anglican Church, Vancouver, BC

“Thank you for your time and dedication in creating such a lovely window for our family.  Your kindness and willingness to share some of your incredible wealth of knowledge made the installation very meaningful for me and even more special. You brought such warmth and joy to the process which can be such an emotional  journey.  Every time I look at the window, not only will I see a loving tribute to our parents, but I will also think of the amazing team who created, documented and installed it.  Thank you!” ~ A. Northcott Stevenson (benefactor of the Mary Magdalene window)

Installation of a north clerestory window at St. Mary’s.