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A Service of Dedication was held on Sunday
10th August, 2003. The windows were designed and made by Alison McMillan,
Goldfields Glass Studio in Castlemaine, Victoria. |
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Installation of the stained glass windows. [photos
E.Miller] |
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Symbolism used in the windows |
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In the top of the centre window
is the symbol of the Uniting Church. This symbol rises above and 'oversees'
the content of the rest of the design. The symbol then evolves into
four similar abstract shapes. In religious terms these represent the
twelve apostles. The three sails represent the Trinity. In the sea are
visible some very simple fish images to indicate the traditional sign
of the Christian. The sky represents heaven and the sea represents earth.
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The waves of the sea as they move represent
a watery environment that is like the 'womb of the world', which is
a source of potential growth and a store of energy. The waves also represent
the ups and downs of life and the fact that it's often a struggle to
keep afloat in times of hardship and pain. The sails also represent
clouds and the cycle of life through rain. In terms of time - the sails
represent morning, noon and night. They may also be thought of as youth,
adulthood and old age. The twelve bird forms represent the months of
the year. |
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The bird forms also represent the spirits
and life of residents, their families, friends and Strathdon staff.
In the sea, painted "significant dates" represent the joys,
achievements and important memories of community members. |
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The three sails and the seascape design
represent the history of the Strathdon site and its relationship to
Captain Matheson and the barque, "Strathdon". |
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The simple contemporary design style relates
to the architectural style of the new building and the predominant use
of blues in the chapel. The design works as a 'whole' but each of the
three windows also works as an 'individual' design in form, colour and
balance. |
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The colour scheme together with the gentle
rhythms and balance of the design, along with details from residents'
input into the design will help Strathdon residents, staff and other
community members see the windows as a source of inspiration and quiet
reflection. |
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