Grace Ayson
Art & Glass Studio
Commissioning a window
Grace undertakes a wide range of commissions. She makes windows for homes, businesses and ecclesiastical buildings, as well as framed stained-glass artwork on lightboxes or hangings which can be displayed in any space.
Each new piece of work, whether it’s a window or a panel, is made to the highest standards entirely by hand. Every piece of work Grace makes is unique. She can create a window which is ‘in keeping’ with the period or style of the architecture, or create a unique, contemporary piece of artwork which is personal to the client. She offers a complete service from an initial design consultation up to fitting the completed window.
With over fifteen years’ experience working on historically important, listed, and ecclesiastical buildings, Grace has considerable experience of the procedures and committees involved in these settings.
Grace also enjoys working collaboratively on projects with Architects, Designers and Artists.
Every window is unique and has its own individual considerations, but this is how the commissioning process usually happens…
The process begins with an initial consultation and a visit to the location of the planned window or art piece. Grace works closely with the client at all stages of the process. At this early stage, initial ideas can be discussed and examples of materials and paint styles can be looked at. Once Grace has a clear idea of the project requirements she can give an approximate cost of the work undertaken. If there is a budget for the work to be undertaken, Grace can create a bespoke design with this in mind. If you are local, you are welcome to visit Grace’s studio, close to the harbour in the coastal town of Ramsgate (by appointment). If you are farther away, this early part of the process can take place by email or phone.
Some clients have a detailed idea of the design they would like, others might have an image or colour range in mind for Grace to develop a design from. Some clients prefer to allow Grace an open brief allowing her to create a window from one of her own designs. The client can also bring an pre - existing design – Grace has considerable experience in translating the work of other artists and designers into stained glass.
Church windows require consultation with and agreement with the client, the church parish, church advisor and architect. Grace has extensive experience of working alongside these groups and other public bodies to ensure a successful outcome.
After this initial discussion, Grace will prepare a design drawing and provide you with a formal quotation for the design and the manufacture of the window, including an estimate of how long the work might take. Every commission is unique and the price of a window can vary considerably depending on the materials and techniques required, the complexity of the design, the amount of painting needed, and the size of the window or panel. On acceptance of the quotation a deposit (usually 50%) is required to confirm the project and begin work. For very large projects, staged payments may be required.
A site visit is usually necessary to take detailed measurements and, when necessary, make templates of the window opening. Grace will develop and finalise a design taking into account any comments made following the initial drawing. For most projects a full size ‘cartoon’ of the design will be drawn up. The production of the window can then take place.
Final payment is due on completion of the piece. When the window or panel is completed it can be delivered or collected from the studio. Grace is happy to fit the window for you if required and can advise you of what this will cost as part of the initial consultation.
Throughout the process you will be kept informed of your window’s development, and it is often possible to visit the studio to view the window at key stages if you’d like to see its creation!
Grace is happy to discuss new projects, large or small. She always welcomes the opportunity to create innovative designs that push the medium of stained glass beyond its usual parameters, but equally enjoys creating traditional window designs with a contemporary feel. The initial consultation is free, so if you have an idea in mind why not contact her to discuss your requirements.