Sr. Mary Ann Therese Kelly’s philosophy is that everyone should have their own unique way of praying, and for her, stained glass serves as a powerful medium for spiritual expression.
Through her Illumination Stained Glass Studio at Villa Maria College in Buffalo, NY, Sr. Ann Therese imparts both the practical techniques and the spiritual significance of stained glass art. Her dedication to teaching spans various educational levels, from high school to college students. She leads stained-glass retreats, organizes summer camps for kids and invites people with developmental disabilities to participate in the creation of beautiful and practical pieces in her studio.
More recently, Sr. Ann Therese’s artistic talents and commitment to her craft have been recognized on a broader scale. She was selected from a competitive pool of 350 applicants to participate in a juried biennial exhibit at the Burchfield Penney Art Center in Buffalo. This exhibit celebrates the contemporary work of fine artists in the region who work with a diverse array of craft materials, including glass, wood, clay, metal and more. The exhibition showcases over 100 works by more than 75 artists, reflecting the broad spectrum of creative expressions within the field.
Sr. Ann Therese has two stained glass works in the exhibit. The first, titled “Water is Life,” is kiln-formed with hand-blown antique glass and a copper foil leading. “This piece is about the need to protect water on our earth from overuse, pollution and climate change. My work is connected with a poem by St. Francis of Assisi called “The Canticle of the Sun.” Part of that poem praises Sister Water along with Brother Sun, Sister Moon, Brother Fire, Sister Wind and Air. This 12th century poem speaks to the 21st century as St. Francis has been proclaimed the first ecologist in the history of the earth.”
The second piece, “Free-Form Vase,” has been fused using drape-slumped glass. “This piece is hand cut, formed and manipulated using a glass kiln. It has organic, nature-inspired images worked into it such as honeybees, butterflies and plant-life inspired ideas. I used methods such as frit-casting, vitrigraphs and bits of colored glass. It is most amazing when a candle is lit inside of it, making it glow with beautiful color.”
The opening reception for the exhibit took place at the Burchfield Penney Art Center on Friday, November 10. The exhibit will continue until March 31, 2024, providing ample time for individuals to experience and appreciate the profound artistry of all the participating artists – including Sr. Ann Therese’s stained-glass creations!
