Stained Glass Conservation in Practice: Artist Lecture by Ali Wysopal

Join us at Foci Minnesota Center for Glass Arts to learn about the field of stained glass conservation with local conservationist Ali Wysopal. From their original manufacture to contemporary preservation efforts, this presentation will cover the development of stained glass, typical condition issues, and treatment approaches for historic decorative windows. Through the use of case studies, we'll explore some of the challenges conservators face when working with stained glass. View Ali’s Portfolio here!

No entry fee, free and open to the public! RSVP is not required, but encouraged. Doors open at 5:30pm - we suggest arriving early to ensure you are able to park and get comfortable before the lecture begins!

Friday, July 25, 2025 from 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

What is Stained Glass? 

Stained Glass is the process of cutting sheet glass into shapes and connecting them to one another with the use of solder to form a two dimensional design or image. At Foci MCGA, classes are taught in the copper-foil techniques and lead came techniques. With the copper foil technique a flexible copper tape is applied to all edges of each glass piece, the pieces are assembled together then affixed by running a bead of solder along each copper seam. With the lead came techniques, length of came (metal strips with a channel to hold the glass), are cut to follow the edges of each glass piece. Solder is placed at each came intersection to affix the panel together.