ILLUMINE-ARTY LEADLIGHTS & STAINED GLASS is owned and operated by Brisbane based leadlighter and traditional glass painter David Engelking. David has worked with several established leadlight businesses and craftsmen since 2002 before deciding to establish his own business.

David was trained predominately by the late Jim Lutz who was renowned in Brisbane for not only his craftsmanship and attention to detail, but his passion and love affair with old / rare glass.  Jim’s enthusiasm for old glass has had a strong influence on David’s work.  With David often incorporating old glass into his pieces to add a character and a unique aesthetic quality to his work. 

David often uses traditional glass stainer paints & silver stain   to achieve visual effects in his work that aren’t possible in conventional leadlighting.  The paints are kiln fired, with often multiple firings required to build up layers and create the desired effect.  The paints, stains and techniques used to apply them are predominantly the same used as those in the  Middle Ages which are still preserved to this day.  So the longevity of the painted work is guaranteed to last a lifetime and beyond.  David also incorporates etching into his work to create dramatic and subtle effects, to give his work another dimension of interest and beauty. 

With a diversve background in biological science and graphic design, David's work explores traditional design elements through to innovative modern design.  David draws most of his inspiration from the natural world.  With a deep respect and reverance for the timeless beauty, harmony and purity that mother nature embodies, David's work strives to honour his connection to that creative spirit that animates life in all its wondrous forms.  

“If you do not rest upon the good foundation of nature, you will labor with little honor and less profit."

Leonardo da Vinci

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