Monkton Windows
The windows are situated in the restaurant area of the new Monkton Church.
It will be a meeting place and central to the development of the local
community. This was strong in my mind when I created the design for the set of
three new stained glass windows. I have based the windows on subjects that are
close to the local Community of Monkton and its history. I also wanted to
represent worldwide communities.
Left Window
The green of the land reach across to the left window from where strong
wheat sheaves grow up to the sky. In
the background we have the patchwork of fields that are familiar in the
surrounding land. Historically the Community of Monkton depended heavily on
farming. The Monks were sent to the area by the Lord High Stewart to
cultivate the soil, which was more fertile than that of the surrounding
land. The monks divided the land into strips and Monkton developed into a
prosperous farming community. The bright sun that shines in the sky
symbolises the growth and the fertility of the local area.
Centre Window
The central window has an image of the world with longitude and latitude
lines spinning round to give the feeling of movement and to indicate that
life always carries on forward. In the foreground of the window I have a
dove with its wings out in flight. This represents hope and peace for
the future to
all
communities throughout the world. In the sky we have two airplanes, which
represent the nearby airport that has a strong presence in Monkton. In the
blue sky above we have St. Andrews cross, the national flag of Scotland.
This gives reference to the nearby old St. Cuthbert's Church and Monkton's
close connections with William Wallace. While resting in the St Cuthbert's
grounds, William Wallace had a dream of Scottish Independence. The vision
started historical events which now leaves us standing beneath a Scottish
sky.
Monkton is a coastal town and the community was founded on the richness and
fertility of the earth and the sea. The lower part of the window is where
the two elements of land and sea meet.
Right Window
The right hand window represents the costal region of Monkton. The blue
waters of the west coast reach across the window and into the crests of
waves. The waters are rich in fish,
which
leap from the waves. The clear night sky is there to balance the bright day
sky on the left window. It reminds us that the whole world is under the same
sky. While we have daylight somewhere else will have night, but the days
always keep moving forward. This feeling is enhanced by all three windows. I
also feel that this reflects the open hillsides and coastal views we can
enjoy in the Monkton area.
The stained glass windows were made using traditional methods of cut glass,
lead and solder. After the panels were built, they were filled with lead
light cement for added strength and sealant. The glass was manufactured in
France and Germany and is of the highest quality. It has great colour and
every sheet is unique. We have incorporated the use of clear lenses and
faceted jewels to add light and a different dimension to the window, and
also acid etch areas of glass and incorporate glass painting to add detail
to the design.
Written by Moira Parker, designer of the stained glass windows