Start of a journey

The talented and charismatic Franz Schroeder became one of America’s foremost stained glass and mosaic artists. He got celebrated as a highly respected stained glass and mosaic artist, passed away late in 2018 at the age of 89. He was a prolific artist his whole life, and for well over 60 years he moved the craft of stained glass ever forward. His distinctive style can be seen in more than 350 churches, mostly found in the US.

His art work and life achievements are supposed to become motivational for the work of young artists’ everywhere by offering artistic archives to fuel their creativity and a story to fuel their dreams. How and why one’s art evolves is foundational to this tale.

As the youngest son of 4 (me Jürgen, Franz †, Manfred and Norbert) I have decided to take a journey of discovery, tracing our father’s footsteps as well as his artistic development, from his early days up to his final accomplishments. This journey begins with the clearing of our parents’ house and art studio in Bavaria, Germany. I was able to collect all of our father’s remaining work and correspondence; these pieces form the puzzle of his life. Over time, I’ll be putting the puzzle together.

In using my father’s trajectory as an example, I hope to motivate others. For some, the book may offer more simply a comprehensive overview of my father’s accomplishments. 

And for me this is a very personal journey. Fueled by an intense curiosity, I will get to know my father, maybe far better than I did before.

Franz Schroeder was an innovator and creative artist who could interpret subject­ matter and style to compliment any architecture and interior religious spaces. Franz was one of the foremost Stained Glass designers and Glass Painters of the 20th century .

His knowledge of the Bible (which is vital in the field of religious stained glass) was only one of the many skills and attributes of Franz Schroeder.

His ability to transfer his style from Catholic to Protestant and to Greek Iconography was another dimension of his talents.
Franz's art reflected both his contemporary and traditional style which in today's environment met with the approval of both architects, religious leaders and committees.

The Book Project

Publication of the art book in 2022.

288 pages, covering the life and work of noted stained glass artist Franz Schroeder. Visually stunning, featuring a selection of 650+ original sketches, and concept drawings as well as many beautifully executed church windows, this volume will reflect the changes in Schroeder’s evolution over time to reach his own distinctive contemporary style.

Author:
Graphic designer and Creative Director, a graduate of Parsons School of Design, NY, Juergen Schroeder describes his father’s life and work.

The website will document the stages of this journey.

More Info

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Passionate for preserving his legacy, I ask for production and launching support. Become part of the journey with your donation for the book project and receive a ‘Thank You Gift’ for making a dream come true!

Additionally, you will be named as a promotor in the book.

With a donation of $100 or more you will receive 1 x copy of the published book.

I appreciate your support.