Ann Smyth is a stained glass artist based in Northern Ireland.

I am a traditionally trained stained glass artist with over 30 years’ experience, creating bespoke stained glass for churches, public buildings and private homes throughout Ireland, the UK and further afield.

I studied stained glass at Edinburgh College of Art before moving to California, where I spent eight years working at Judson Studios in Los Angeles, initially as a stained glass artist and later as an in-house designer and shop foreman. This gave me invaluable experience working on both traditional and contemporary stained glass commissions.

On returning to Northern Ireland, I established my own practice and have since worked on a wide variety of architectural projects, from small, intimate pieces for private homes to large-scale ecclesiastical and public commissions. I work closely with my clients throughout the process, from the initial ideas and design through to the creation and installation of the finished piece.

For the past 13 years I have also been a resident artist at Castle Ward, a National Trust property on the shores of Strangford Lough. Living and working beside the coast has become an increasingly important influence on my work. I am fascinated by the changing light and tides and by the small, often overlooked treasures of the shoreline — seaweed, feathers, shells and weathered stones.

Light and symbolism have always been central to my work. Whether traditional or abstract, liturgical or secular, I see stained glass as a kind of portal — drawing the viewer in and creating a moment for contemplation and transformation. I am fascinated by the ability of coloured glass and light to alter not only our perception of a space, but how we feel within it.

Alongside my commissioned work, I create smaller pieces of stained glass, jewellery and artwork that allow me to explore my connection with the natural world more freely.

Traditional craftsmanship remains at the heart of everything I make, whether creating a window intended to become part of a building for generations or a small piece inspired by something discovered on a walk along the shore.

I believe a successful commission should feel completely at home in its setting while also reflecting something of the people for whom it was created. If you are considering commissioning a piece of stained glass, I would be delighted to discuss your ideas with you.

To commission a stained glass window for churches, public buildings or a residential project, please contact me.