Voices Behind the Glass X
- Roots of Humanity Foundation
- Feb 12
- 3 min read
An Inside Look at the Sphere of Light from One of Its Visionary Creators
Welcome back to our Artist Interview Series, where each month we spotlight one of the talented artists bringing the Sphere of Light to life. Today, we are excited to introduce Chad Young, a project manager and designer who is helping craft this monumental space.
About the Artist
Can you share a bit about your art background? My name is Chad Young, and I work at Holdman Studios on the Sphere of Light project. My art background is a little different from most people here. Many artists start drawing as children and never stop. I actually began my formal art training later in life. I spent a little over four years apprenticing with a classical oil painter, which gave me the foundation to pursue art more seriously.
How did you get started in stained glass? My involvement in stained glass really grew out of conversations with Tom. We went to high school together, and over time we talked about art and the impact it can have. As we shared our experiences and interests, we realized there was an opportunity for me to contribute to the Sphere of Light project. It allowed me to use my art training along with my experience working with teams, which felt like a good fit for a project of this size.
What inspires your artistic style and approach to working with glass? Much of our inspiration comes from the purpose of the Sphere of Light itself. One of its goals is to help people see the similarities we share across cultures, faiths, and time periods. As we study how different cultures use visual art to express what they value, that understanding naturally influences the work we are creating. Individual styles still come through, but the broader perspective continues to shape the project.
Do you have a favorite technique or process? I don't know if I have a single favorite technique. What excites me most is seeing how the studio continues to grow and improve. In my opinion, the work being done now is the best work the studio has produced. Decades of experience from many artists are coming together, and recent windows have even incorporated new hot shop techniques. It is something many of us have never seen before, and we hope others feel the same way.
What is different about painting on glass compared to traditional painting?Painting on glass presents unique challenges. Once the glass is fired, you cannot simply erase or start over like you can with oil paint or drawing. It requires careful planning and experience. I have a great deal of respect for artists who are skilled at painting on glass because it demands a very specific set of skills.
About the Sphere of Light
What does it mean to you to be part of the Sphere of Light project? What stands out to me is the kind of people this project attracts. Whether they are artists, donors, or community leaders, many are drawn to the Sphere because it carries meaning and purpose. So much of life is spent maintaining routines and responsibilities, but this project feels different. It has beauty, intention, and a sense of permanence, and I think that is something everyone involved shares.
What challenges have you faced while working on this project? Working with a group of artists is different from working in other professional environments. Artists tend to be very passionate and emotionally invested in their work, which is part of what makes art so powerful. At the same time, that passion requires patience and understanding when collaborating. This team has worked together long enough to develop a strong rhythm, and when we find the right balance, the final result is always better than what any one person could create alone.
Personal Connection and Impact
What do you hope people take away from the Sphere of Light? I hope people come away with a greater understanding of one another. There are real differences between people, but there are also many shared values. Across cultures and beliefs, people are often motivated by the desire to do good, to care for others, and to make the world better. I hope the Sphere helps people see that and encourages compassion and understanding.
If you could describe the Sphere of Light in three words, what would they be Inspiring, beauty, and light.
Don't forget to join us next month for another full Artist Interview Series!
Best,
Roots of Humanity
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