Perhaps no art form is more closely associated in the cultural imagination with Christian buildings than that of stained-glass windows. Jewel-coloured light falling through glass is a significant contributor to the sense of sacred space that many people experience in churches. But what makes stained-glass so ideally suited to Christian purposes?

This lecture asks what is theologically distinctive about stained-glass as a medium, and finds answers in biblical attitudes to windows, qualities such as transparency, luminosity, and colour, and medieval commentaries which view windows as channels of holiness, illuminating the hearts and minds of those on whom their light falls.

This theological framework for thinking about stained-glass is brought to life through windows by the contemporary artist, Thomas Denny, whose work may be seen in over 50 churches and cathedrals in the UK.

 

This event forms part of Lost and Found: Stories of sanctuary and belonging.

Lost & Found foregrounds stories of sanctuary - exploring themes of refuge, resilience, and the search for safety in a world facing significant social, political, and environmental challenges.

This eclectic programme of art, film, ideas and discussions reflects King’s status as a University of Sanctuary. It has been inspired and informed by King’s life-changing research and co-created with artists and communities from across London and beyond.