Alpha, Narthex Window
34.5' w. by 45.5' h.
Omega, Altar Window
34.5' w. by 45.5' h.
Due to circumstances beyond the control of Owner and Architect, work on this project was terminated well into the architectural design process. The preliminary designs (presented here) were finished and final designs were well underway.
From the Preliminary Design Notes:
NARTHEX WINDOW: PARADISUS
The transition from the Retreat Center (and parking area) takes worshipers on a symbolic journey through the desert culminating at the grand, circular Paradisus (“Eden restored”). In this symbolic oasis, travelers may sit on the perimeter wall and contemplate sculpture and landscape or simply pray and meditate quietly before entering the Chapel. At first glance, the veil-like Narthex Window will be visible when sky (light) is glimpsed through the glass roof beyond. The Paradisus’ circular seating wall signifying wholeness and perfection is reiterated in the Narthex Window as a vertical ellipse. This reflected vertical circle/ellipse resolves further into an “Omega” complementing the Chapel’s “Alpha” shape and denoting entrance. The Narthex Window includes tints of blue and green symbolizing our physical reality in nature. A radiant sunburst with pale amber accents greets worshipers. This sunburst represents the risen Christ, the Hope and Promise of Sunrise, the Gifts of the Angels, Ascension, and Spiritual Enlightenment. The more heavily textured, clear, colorless glasses and amber accents which stream down from above and out into the world serve as welcoming reminders of our triune God and, upon leaving, as a gesture of God’s blessings, embrace and benediction.
ALTAR WINDOW: EUCHARIST/HOLY SPIRIT
Upon entering the Chapel, this soaring window floats behind the Altar area. Its palette includes filmy white glasses which filter direct afternoon sun and provide a drapery-like backdrop for worship and meditation. Purple and amber imagery suggest grapes and wheat and symbolize the Holy Eucharist. As one’s gaze moves upward, the Dove of the Holy Sprit descends from the upper reaches of the window. Whether seen during the day as warm, glowing ambers or backlit at night as radiant white, the Dove will be a memorable part of worshiper’s welcome to El Tesoro. At night the Dove will also appear as a guiding beacon in the darkness when approaching the Chapel.
Materials: German and French mouthblown glass, domestic rolled glass, lead-crystal prisms, lenses, dichroic glass, lead and solder with a protective glazing of tempered glass.