Charles J. Connick: America’s Visionary Stained Glass Artist

Charles J. Connick was an American stained glass artist who worked in the first half of the 20th century. He reasserted the values of the medieval craft and persuaded twentieth-century Americans that these could inspire expressive modern glass and new imagery. This book presents his artistic development, analyzing his work in the context of the Arts and Crafts and "Modern Gothic" movements. It showcases stained glass works in the United States, including New York's St. John the Divine Cathedral and San Francisco's Grace Cathedral.

Format: Hardback
Length: 376 pages
Publication date: 14 May 2024
Publisher: Yale University Press

When Charles J. Connick (1875–1945) embarked on his stained glass journey in Pittsburgh during the 1890s, the captivating "opalescent" windows created by Tiffany and La Farge had captured the hearts of Americans, overshadowing the traditional artistry of the craft. Connick, determined to revive the essence of medieval craftsmanship, set out on a mission to convince twentieth-century Americans that these values could be harnessed to create not only expressive modern glass but also awe-inspiring new imagery.

This comprehensive book delves into the remarkable trajectory of Connick's artistic development, challenging the notion of him as a mere revivalist. Peter Cormack, in his insightful examination, explores the diverse cultural influences that shaped Connick's art, highlighting his creative interaction with European stained glass and his close friendship with renowned poets like Robert Frost. The book is adorned with rich illustrations, drawing from decades of extensive research, and contextualizes Connick's work within the Arts and Crafts and "Modern Gothic" movements in architecture and applied arts. It showcases his stained glass masterpieces found in some of the most spectacular buildings across the United States, including New York's St. John the Divine Cathedral and San Francisco's Grace Cathedral. Furthermore, the book sheds light on his fruitful collaborations with renowned architects such as Ralph Adams Cram, Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue, Maginnis & Walsh, and others, providing a detailed account of their joint artistic endeavors.

Through his unwavering dedication and artistic vision, Charles J. Connick emerged as a true pioneer in the world of stained glass, leaving an indelible mark on the art form and inspiring generations to come. His legacy continues to shine, reminding us of the power of tradition and the endless possibilities of creativity.

Weight: 2168g
Dimension: 259 x 296 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300272321