The illuminated window at the back of the church is a celebration of the local area. It is a composite picture made up of ‘icons’ or subjects that are particular or typical of the area – some from Great Ayton itself, others wider afield.

There are at least 20 ‘icons’ in the window which measures 60 inches high and 40 inches wide.

As the picture took shape the path became a dominant feature. The path can be interpreted in a number of different ways – perhaps as a ‘path of life’ involving many twists and turns with obstacles in the way but with provision of the means to overcome them through God’s grace.  

The picture was developed by using a number of digital photographs, removing all but the outline and any significant detail and then adding colour – deliberately using strong, not necessarily realistic, colour.

Background

The need
The back window in the church became redundant when the lift was installed in 2006 as part of the church alterations; indeed the outlook from the window became a little unsightly. It was thought that some sort of ‘stained glass window’ might provide a solution.

The catalyst
The church was fortunate to receive a bequest from Margaret Stainsby in 2008 and it was decided to use some of the money to partly fund the window. 

The technology
We discovered that it was possible to print digital images on diffusing film mounted in a ‘light box’ to illuminate the picture from behind.

The development
A small group was appointed consisting of Eileen Cowen, Hannah Jackson, Martina Dietrich and John Berry. The group came up with the idea of the icons and a rough composition. Photographs were taken and the composition and representation developed and refined until the final picture was produced, the art work taking over 80 hours to complete. The result was printed and incorporated into the light box. Peter Jackson then had the tricky job of installing the box in position, the work being completed in March 2010.