ABOUT

I speak the language of colour and light - bold, vibrant, and alive. Creating stories that dance with the sun and shine with love.

Mary J. Leen

Mary J. Leen is a professional Stained Glass & Public Art creator whose work explores the intersection of Art, Craft, Design & Heritage. Working professionally for 16 years from her studio in Kerry, her vibrant installations and unique stained glass pieces reflect a deep connection to nature and tradition. Collaborating with clients to visually tell the stories that are calling to be told. Immortalizing them through bold colours, hand painted details, striking contrasts, and rich illuminated symbolism. Creating a time capsule of light, history & legacy.

QUALIFICATIONS:

> Fine Art Degree in Sculpture from Crawford College of Art.

> MA Professsional Design Practice

>MA (Cert.) Arts & Wellbeing

> PME Professional Masters in Art & Design with Digital Media

ARTISTIC VISION & PHILOSOPHY

ARTISTIC VISION

My vision is to redefine stained glass as more than a craft — to elevate it to its rightful place among the realms of 'high art'. For me, stained glass is a medium of magic and expression, where light becomes a living element and color speaks with depth and emotion. It is an infinite source of wellbeing.

Although, I honor centuries-old techniques with precision and care, preserving the integrity of this ancient tradition but I strive to push the boundaries of the material through original design and contemporary expression of the world we live in.

Whether realistic or abstract, each piece is conceived as a WORK OF ART, not just decoration, but a statement that resonates with meaning and beauty.

Through this approach, I aim to create stained glass that inspires awe, sparks dialogue, and claims its rightful place alongside painting, sculpture, and architecture as an enduring and valid art form.

PHILOSOPHY

My glass journey began with my apprenticeship in Siena, Italy, where I learned the ancient craft and techniques of stained glass. This training made a lasting impression on me and shaped my artistic philosophy. I am drawn to the work of the old masters — Caravaggio, Leonardo, and Harry Clarke. Realism and symbolism rock my boat. But above all else, the process of making stained glass is key. Everything must be perfect!

My work exists because of my patrons. I design for them and their spaces. I approach each job with an open mind and heart, allowing the space and the client to lay offerings on my altar of creativity for my spirit to divine.

This collaboration is professional and innovative and often leads to lifelong friendships. I partner directly with clients to translate their vision into a compelling stained glass reality, overseeing each project from the first sketch to the final installation.

Stained glass has always been a source of magic and never ending joy for me, a medium that transforms light into something awe-inspiring. My work is guided by a deep love for this craft and a commitment to preserving its ancient traditions, using techniques that have remained unchanged for hundreds of years.

Every piece is created with meticulous attention to detail, whether it calls for realistic imagery or bold, abstract color. I strive to balance heritage with creativity, ensuring that each work is both timeless and uniquely expressive.