O “novo papel comunicativo” do vitral na sociedade actual

Abstract

In medieval times stained glass worked as an illustrated bible to an illiterate society. In the twentieth century, with the development of science and technology glass became even more versatile widely spread and insuperable from our society. Today we see an increase in the materialization of art. The development of technology and art techniques is closely linked with scientific development and with cultural relationships between people. Today’s stained glass has got a new status, a new communicative impact that assures its own place in contemporary art. Stained glass isn´t confined to sacred places any more, it works in public places such as court houses and hotels. The message is essentially aesthetic, in some cases creating an atmosphere and adding value to the place, in others, providing enjoyment of the art and in these situations stained glass is exhibited independent of the architecture and seen as a work of art in itself.