"Lake Texoma Communion"

This stained glass memorial panel is dedicated to the memory of my Uncle Clifford Thomas.  There are approximately 970 individual pieces of glass in this panel, including some which are iridescent and some which are painted with details.  The dogwood tree represents resurrection.  The sunset/sunrise reflection on the waters of the still lake represent the transition between life and death, and death and resurrection.  The cardinal was my Uncle's favorite bird, but it also represents the blood sacrifice of Jesus Christ.  The blue heron has special significance for the Thomas family, but also represents steadfastness.  The panel features wild wheat and wild mustang grapes, representing the Christian sacraments of wine and bread used in Holy Communion.  The fossil is a common type found throughout the Lake Texoma area.

This panel is paired with an original poem by Texas 2010 Poet Laureat Karla K. Morton titled "Summer at Texoma" and was part on display at the North Branch Library in Denton during the month of April 2010 in a joint show presented by the Visual Arts Society of Texas (VAST) and the Denton Poets Assembly.  After that show, it was installed May 9, 2010 at Lakeway United Methodist Church in Pottsboro, Texas.

Update: 2/5/2010:  This panel won 1st prize at the VAST monthly member's mini-show last night.  It was chosen 1st out of 15 entries.
Update: 4/29/2010: Karla Morton will be at the installation ceremony.
Update: 5/9/2010: Dedication service held and panel installed.