Mission and goals

Mission

Stained glass represents a significant art form within our region, though it is frequently undervalued. Since the Middle Ages, exceptional works have been produced here, many of which are regarded among the finest globally. Despite this, public awareness remains limited, and substantial opportunities for further research exist. Additionally, the preservation of this glass heritage faces challenges stemming from insufficient knowledge and misconceptions. To address these issues and promote both understanding and appreciation of stained glass, Ars Lucis was founded. The organisation provides a range of services and activities tailored to engage both enthusiasts and professionals. Central to its mission is the stewardship and accessibility of the Caen Collection, recognised as one of the most important private collections of architectural glass worldwide.

Ars Lucis encompasses the study of all stained-glass windows and decorative glass panels, as well as other artistic glazing forms such as glass-in-concrete and etched glass. The scope further includes historical clear glazing. Geographically, the emphasis is placed on the territory corresponding to present-day Belgium, and by extension, the historical Netherlands.

Goals

Ars Lucis is committed to the protection, preservation, management and promotion or dissemination of the art of stained glass. To this end, it is active in various areas: collection management, research, public outreach, education and services.

1. Collection management

Our collection management focuses on the Caen Collection, which is being made accessible to researchers. Key priorities include completing and digitising the inventory for future online publication. The collection underpins all other activities. Ars Lucis also aims to create new storage for stained-glass windows, especially those donated, loaned, or at risk due to changes or demolition of their original buildings.

2. Research

Applied research on historical stained glass, especially from the Low Countries, remains an evolving field. Ars Lucis conducts its own studies covering artistic, historical, and technical aspects, and aims to share findings wherever possible.

The organisation also invites external researchers to collaborate.

3. Public outreach

Ars Lucis conducts public outreach activities to familiarise a broad audience with stained glass art. This includes organising and partnering in exhibitions. The Caen Collection is available for loan to support these efforts. Additional activities, such as lectures and guided tours, are provided to facilitate engagement with the collection and the medium of stained glass.

Looking ahead, Ars Lucis intends to establish a museum dedicated to stained glass. This would enable the permanent display of the collection and improve access to other initiatives in research, public outreach, education, and services. Currently, there is no comparable centre in the Benelux region, while similar institutions exist in other countries including France, Switzerland, England, and Germany.

4. Education

Ars Lucis offers a diverse range of educational programmes. Through organised courses, excursions, and studio-based activities, the organisation provides specialised training in the history, creation, and conservation-restoration of stained glass. Each programme is meticulously tailored to meet the specific interests and needs of its target audience.

5. Services

Ars Lucis extends its expertise and collection to third parties through a comprehensive range of services. We offer advisory support and detailed information on glass painting, stained-glass windows, historical clear glazing, and the conservation and restoration of such works. Our premises are available for researchers wishing to study the collection. Additionally, our forthcoming storage facilities will provide secure preservation for stained-glass windows that may otherwise be at risk.

As a centre focusing on stained glass, Ars Lucis aims to promote knowledge and understanding of decorative and historical architectural glass. Lack of information can result in neglect or loss, while increased awareness is an important initial step toward the protection of glass heritage. Following the goal to preserve this heritage comes the process of its conservation, which, when conducted under appropriate conditions, helps ensure the longevity of glass objects. Ars Lucis provides expertise related to the conservation and restoration of stained glass. For stained-glass windows that are no longer in use, Ars Lucis maintains storage facilities, keeping these items alongside its managed collection. Ars Lucis is also responsible for managing this collection, including registering, conserving, researching, documenting, and providing access to it. These efforts contribute to the broader promotion of glass art.