Welcome to the BSMGP website

About stained glass

Stained glass is the art of manipulating coloured light within an architectural context. The use of glass in modulating light is a fundamental element in establishing the atmosphere and mood of buildings old and new. It is a technical art form in which the expressive elements of design are combined with the disciplines of a craft. The history of the medium of stained glass is one of continual innovation based on ancient tradition, exploring new approaches to the raw materials of coloured glass, lead and light. Britain has a rich heritage of stained glass from the Middle Ages to the present day, and British designers and craftsmen continue to make a distinctive contribution to its evolution.

About the BSMGP

The British Society of Master Glass Painters, founded in 1921, is Britain's only organization devoted exclusively to the art and craft of stained glass. From the outset, its chief objectives have been to promote and encourage high standards in the art and craft of stained glass painting and staining, to act as a locus for the exchange of information and ideas within the stained glass craft and to preserve the invaluable stained glass heritage of Britain. Its wide range of activities includes: lectures, conferences, exhibitions, forums, guided walks and other events connected with stained glass; an annual Journal of Stained Glass, a quarterly Stained Glass Newsletter and other publications; access to the Society’s extensive reference library on stained glass and the online Members' Forum, as well as illustrated online design portfolios for Fellows and Associates. More

Membership is open to stained glass designers, painters and makers, historians, researchers and other academics, conservators, restorers, students, amateur stained glass makers and anyone with an interest in stained glass, including libraries and museums. Although the Society is UK based, there are a growing number of international members. More

Registered in England and Wales 173764.
Registered office: 6 Queen Square, London WC1N 3AR