New stained glass window unveiled at The Bridge library

Platform in partnership with Glasgow Life Libraries, is delighted to launch Easterhouse Stained Glass Window ‘Whose scheme is it anyway’ - a new legacy artwork exploring working-class history, archives of Greater Easterhouse and Glasgow North East.

Created collaboratively by local residents of Glasgow North East – the ‘Easterhouse Living Archive’ group - and led by artists Keira McLean and Joey Simons, the unique artwork forms part of a series of 10 stained glass windows in place or in progress in libraries across Glasgow and beyond, capturing histories of people and community – with the Easterhouse library window being the latest addition. 

The unveiling of the Easterhouse Stained Glass Window - Whose scheme is it anyway? takes place at Platform, The Bridge, Easterhouse on Thu 24 July at 2pm – 4pm. Free and all welcome – book space via the Platform website. As part of Glasgow 850 celebrations, Glasgow Life will fund a window trail later this year - map, digital and printed - of the 10 windows across the city for members of the public to visit.

A mutual passion for working-class history, archives and sharing stories led to the formation of the Easterhouse Living Archive group, who have spent the last 6 months talking, writing, researching, drawing, moulding, cutting and shaping to create a lasting tribute to the community – all with the professional support and guidance of lead artist Keira and the team at RDW Glass Studios in Dennistoun.

The imagery displayed in the new window includes archival material, original artwork and thought provoking personal experience, bringing together fascinating elements from the history of Easterhouse and Glasgow North East, asking the question: “Whose scheme is it anyway?” 

A new publication, edited by Joey Simons, accompanies the window, drawing together original writing, illustrations and archival discoveries made by the Easterhouse Living Archive group in the course of the project. It is available to browse alongside the window which will form part of a permanent display within the Easterhouse library. Read the publication digitally here or pick one up at Platform.

Keira said: “The Easterhouse Living Archive project has brought together people of all ages and backgrounds to learn the craft of stained glass and celebrate the working class heritage of Glasgow North East. 

“The imagery and stories on display in the window were discovered in archives and have been collectively explored and discussed by the group involved, in a series of creative workshops. These offered a starting point for conversations, leading to the sharing personal memories, experiences - highlighting fascinating elements of the history of Easterhouse and Glasgow North East. 

“These histories of resistance and survival feel more relevant than ever. We are here and we want to live! As Glasgow celebrates its 850th anniversary, we hope the window places the people back at the centre of the city’s story.”

Lynn Freebairn, one of the participants of the project, added: “Although I was new to the community and didn’t know too much about the history of Easterhouse, I was made to feel extremely welcome and it was a lovely way to be introduced to the area, its history and community. 

“I was able to create three pieces of glass that will be displayed in the window, and I feel privileged to have been invited to be part of it”.

The window was designed, created and hand-made by: Angela Rooney, Brenda Gilmour, Fiona Doyle, Frank Doyle, Gillian Grant, Ian Montague, Janice Taggart, Kit Ching McKeown, Lynn Freebairn, Margaret Coletta Mass, Peter McMahon, Robert Haughie and Rosemary Whitley.

Funded by Glasgow City Heritage Trust. Supported by Platform in partnership with Glasgow Life Libraries.

Launch event takes place 2pm – 4pm on Thu 24 July and entry is free although ticketed. Book your space here.