Shaughnessy Entryway, Vancouver

These entryway windows explore themes of good fortune, honour and longevity which are important within Chinese culture, and they are installed in a beautiful home in the Shaughnessy area of Vancouver.

The majority of the imagery is derived from nature – flowers, plants and creatures that are imbued with a great deal of meaning. The bat is considered a symbol of happiness and joy, five bats represent the five fortunes surrounding the symbol for longevity with the peach representing unity. The lotus flower denotes beauty and purity flourishing on strong roots even through rooted in the mud. The magnolia flower with the peony and crab apple blossom pictured together signify wealth and honour for the family.

It has been fascinating delving into the cultural significance of the different elements to create artwork with special significance for the family who view it everyday.

See the making of this project in our new video: The Art of Stained Glass