J. A. Geiger Studio: Design Process

Supernova in Progress

Custom Design Process

INITIAL CONSULTATION: An initial meeting, preferably at the client’s home (or office) provides an opportunity
to determine their artistic and decorative tastes, the location aesthetics, any site constraints, and especially
lighting conditions. When a site visit is not possible, this evaluation can be done verbally, via email, or
through architectural drawings & photos.

DESIGN PROPOSAL: Certain considerations are always taken into account: lighting conditions,
visibility/obscurity desired, form, color, artistic aesthetics and subject matter. Once the budget has been
established, the time-frame and style determined, a detailed proposal is created. For a “Landscape Mosaic”,
a proposal would include an inspiration image (background of process image 1) and verbal descriptions of
the glass and ‘artistic vision’. For a more architectural piece, in a period style like “Mission” for example, this
would be a scaled sketch of the panel.

DESIGN CONTRACT: After presenting the proposal and the client approves the design, they are invited to the
studio to see the glass pieces chosen for their artwork.

FABRICATION: Clients are welcome to visit the studio in Saint Paul to see the work in progress. If a physical
visit is not feasible, photos will be taken and sent to you of the progress. For example, the series of images
to the left were for a client in New York City.

(1) With the inspirational image in the
background, the glass is being laid
out on the work table. Each piece is
carefully cut and selected to fit the
artistic vision.

(2) The lead "came" is individually cut
to fit each piece of glass. Horseshoe
nails hold the piece loosely together
until the joints are soldered.

(3) The "cement" has been applied
and is being scrubbed into the lead
came with the bristle brush.

(4) Detail of the completed panel.
The ‘Supernova’ panel’s finished size
is 26x26" and was mounted in a
custom Mission Oak frame.

Fine Art Stained Glass