Lola Pradeilles

Lp Atelier De Vitrail

Stained glass maker | Millau, France

The expert of refracted light

Lola creates her own designs while also being a restorer
She founded her atelier at the age of 23
Her projects range from 13th century pieces to contemporary compositions

Lola Pradeilles changed career paths in her early 20s in order to pursue training in glass staining and glass painting. "I wanted to learn artisanal techniques as well as modern technology," she explains. Today, Lola's commissions range from religious and public buildings to residential projects. Her work can be figurative or abstract, and she enjoys bringing a touch of modernity to some classic pieces. Each creation is site-specific. Lola is very attached to producing stained glass pieces that are faithful to conventions and historical approaches, giving her a base from which to modernise. For each new project she carries out research on the provenance, history, location, material, context and complexity of the design of each window. Lola creates models to a 1:10 scale to give her clients an overall vision of the finished project. She also finds the time to run workshops and teach in different countries.

Interview

©Sarah Thuault-Ney

©Justin Thérondel

What made you become a stained glass maker?: After spending a year in graphic design school, I decided to quit to study craft. I found a school where I could learn to make stained glass. I have always loved working with colours in many different ways. I have since moved away from the traditional stained glass field, which was a big revelation in my artistic journey.
Where did you learn your craft?: I went to the Lucas de Nehou school in Paris.
Which techniques do you use ?: I use various techniques to produce my pieces, such as stained glass, glass painting, glass fusing, and enamels and glazes.
What do you love most about your craft ?: What I really love doing is making paintings with or on glass.

Lola Pradeilles is a rising star: she began her career in 2018 and she started teaching in 2021