A Tribute to the Stained Glass Wall at the First Commerce Center for Compassionate Care
Nestled at the heart of the First Commerce Center for Compassionate Care is a radiant masterpiece—a timeless stained-glass wall that not only pays homage to the beauty of the Big Bend region, but also serves as a source of comfort and hope for patients and visitors alike. We are grateful to the talented artists Karen Pritzl, Maggie Jones, and Juan Comas from the FSU Master Craftsman Studio, whose efforts and artistic vision have not only brought this incredible piece to life but have infused it with a genuine warmth and comforting glow.
This awe-inspiring creation, situated at the end of the corridor, represents a labor of love that spanned over 1,400 hours in both its crafting and installation. The stained-glass wall features a breathtaking depiction of native plants, including swamp lilies, trillium, Christmas fern, beautyberry, live oak tree, and dogwood trees, capturing the essence of our local landscape and providing a soothing connection to nature for patients and families alike.
The commitment to excellence shines through not just in the meticulous craftsmanship but also in the genuine joy the artists felt throughout this project. Their passion for creating meaningful and visually stunning art is evident in the vibrant colors and intricate details of the natural landscape. The warm light the window emits fosters an atmosphere of tranquility and hope within the First Commerce Center for Compassionate Care.
As a full-service fabrication and design studio, the FSU Master Craftsman Studio takes pride in private commissions and is well-equipped and experienced in the creation and installation of large-scale public artwork. This stained-glass wall stands as a glowing testament to their capabilities, and we look forward to collaborating on more projects in the future.
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the artisans behind this masterpiece:
- Karen Pritzl: With over 40 years of experience in glasswork, Karen is a local Tallahassee artist and an integral part of the FSU Master Craftsman Studio for over a decade.
- Maggie Jones: Specializing in glasswork, Maggie has been a full-time artist at the studio since early 2020, bringing her sculptural expertise to the team for over five years.
- Juan Comas: A multi-disciplinary artist with a background in design and art handling, Juan has contributed his expertise as a Fine Art Specialist at the studio for more than ten years.
This stained-glass wall is more than just an artwork; it’s a celebration of nature, a testament to skilled craftsmanship, and a symbol of comfort and beauty designed to positively impact the lives of our patients and their families at the First Commerce Center for Compassionate Care.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Karen, Juan, and Maggie for their dedication, and we invite you to explore the intricate details and vibrant colors of this masterpiece at the First Commerce Center for Compassionate Care.
