British Society of Master Glass Painters Centenary Exhibition

A rare and exciting exhibition of contemporary stained glass has just begun the first leg of its UK tour at Ely Cathedral.

The exhibition celebrates the Centenary of the British Society of Master Glass Painters (BSMGP), the UK’s only membership organisation devoted exclusively to the art and craft of stained glass, which was founded in 1921. Members of the society were asked to create a new exhibition panel measuring 30cm x 30cm on any theme of their choice. 

60 stained glass panels are featured in the exhibition representing the work of artists from across the UK and overseas. This collection of artworks, created especially for their centenary year, celebrates the unique art of glass. The panels have been created using a variety of traditional and innovative modern glass techniques, demonstrating the extraordinary range of stained glass currently practiced. The artists explore a variety of subjects with a few recurring themes, such as the environment, the pandemic and the beauty of nature. The exhibition builds a fascinating insight into the current concerns of glass artists a hundred years after the society was established.

The British Society of Master Glass Painters Centenary Exhibition is on display at Ely Cathedral from Friday 17th September 2021 until Sunday 31st October 2021. Selected works are on display in the south-west transept of Ely Cathedral, by the entrance to The Stained Glass Museum, whose gallery demonstrates the evolution of this art form over since the medieval period. Entry to the exhibition (on the ground floor) is free. 

Founded in 1921, the British Society of Master Glass Painters is the UK’s only membership organisation devoted exclusively to the art and craft of stained glass. Membership is open to everyone and offers a professional qualification for accredited Associates and Fellows of the society.More information and a complete virtual gallery of all the panels submitted can be seen here https://www.bsmgp.org.uk/news-events/events/exhibitions/

Ely Cathedral, in partnership with The Stained Glass Museum – 17th September – 31st October 2021

Press release from The Stained Glass Museum