Rachel Phillips is a British stained glass artist whose work combines traditional craftsmanship with a contemporary artistic vision. Working from her studio in West Wales, she creates architectural stained glass and independent artworks that explore the transformative qualities of light, colour and pattern.
Over a career spanning more than twenty-five years, Phillips has completed commissions for public and private buildings across the UK, including projects at World Heritage sites, earning recognition as one of Britain's leading contemporary glass artists.
Trained in both fine art and the historic techniques of stained glass, Phillips works with handmade glass using traditional processes including painting, enamelling, silver staining and gilding. Her practice is rooted in the belief that stained glass is one of the most expressive artistic media, capable of changing continually as light moves across its surface and through architectural space.
Drawing inspiration from the rich traditions of Medieval and Arts and Crafts stained glass, Phillips creates work that honours historic methods while remaining firmly contemporary in character. Recurring themes include the natural world, botanical forms and symbolic ornament, exploring the relationship between light, surface and the human desire to celebrate and preserve places, stories and moments of significance.
Alongside large-scale architectural commissions, Phillips produces independent panels and sculptural works that demonstrate the versatility of stained glass beyond ecclesiastical settings. Her work is distinguished by refined craftsmanship, luminous colour and carefully considered compositions that respond to both their surroundings and the changing qualities of natural light.
Phillips is a QEST Benefact Trust Scholar, an award that has supported the continued development of her practice and technical expertise. She is also a Fellow of the British Society of Master Glass Painters, recognising her significant contribution to the art and craft of stained glass in Britain.
Illustrated: Image supplied by the artist with thanks.Photographer: Stephen Heaton
