For Jack Whitworth, creating stained glass began as a hobby and has grown into a passion that allows him to share his abilities and faith with others.

“I love creating stained glass because it allows me the creativity to give back some of the talent that I’ve been given throughout the decades,” Whitworth said. He founded Whitworth Stained Glass in 1970 in Panama City, Florida, while serving in the Air Force.

In 1988, Whitworth became a member of the Stained Glass Association of America and began expanding his skill set and improving his craft, he said.

Years later, Whitworth and his wife, Cindy, opened their New Braunfels studio and gallery in 2007. Cindy designs and creates windows alongside staff members Kevin Shaw and Sophia Lind.

Since starting his career in stained glass more than 50 years ago, Whitworth said he has designed windows for more than 175 churches and countless homes and galleries across the country. Whitworth said he and his team consult with each new client to create a design and select colors for their windows, ensuring that no two pieces are the same.

The beauty the windows convey, the meaning behind the designs and the opportunity to create something long-lasting drives Whitworth’s passion, he said.

“How stained glass can speak to you and to everyone is just a very personal experience,” Whitworth said.

Through the SGAA, Whitworth said he has had the opportunity to help educate artists throughout the country and served as president of the organization from 2009-11.

In 2016, Whitworth completed a training program to became one of two people in the country certified to appraise stained glass through the Appraisers Association of America, according to the association. Whitworth said he has appraised stained glass throughout the country, including some pieces that are more than 100 years old.

In addition to creating custom pieces and appraising historic windows, Whitworth also restores antique works with the hope of preserving the creations for future generations.

“I want those things to be fantastic because they’re going to be touching a lot of people’s lives,” Whitworth said. “I really feel blessed to have the opportunity to do what I do because it will affect years, generations ... it makes a difference in people’s lives.”

Whitworth Stained Glass & Art Gallery

104 Melody Lane, New Braunfels

830-214-3370

www.whitworthstainedglass.com

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., closed Sat.-Sun.