Harry Clarke’s Stained Glass Legacy Captivates Audiences in 2026

Ireland’s Master of Light and Colour

Harry Clarke (1889-1931) is one of Ireland’s most renowned stained-glass artists and illustrators, whose extraordinary work continues to captivate audiences nearly a century after his death. His work is celebrated internationally for its originality of design and impressive technical skill, not least in Ireland where his work is present in 16 counties, mostly in churches.

Current Exhibitions Showcase Clarke’s Masterpieces

A new exhibition showcasing six of Harry Clarke’s stained-glass panels, including some of his earliest known works, opened on the 5th December, and will run for at least two years. This special collaboration between the National Museum and Crawford Art Gallery brings together panels not previously displayed in the same place before, with three panels travelling from the Crawford Art Gallery, Cork as it closes for its ambitious redevelopment project.

The exhibition represents a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts and the general public to witness Clarke’s genius up close. Born in Dublin, he was a leading figure in the Irish Arts and Crafts Movement, with his work influenced by both the Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements, while his stained glass was particularly informed by the French Symbolist movement.

The Controversial Geneva Window

Among Clarke’s most significant works is the Geneva Window, which remains his most controversial commission. Clarke was commissioned in 1926 by the newly independent Irish Free State to create a window as a gift to the League of Nations in Geneva, but the completed window was rejected—labeled too provocative and ‘unrepresentative’ of the Irish people. This masterpiece is now permanently displayed at The Wolfsonian-FIU in Miami, Florida.

Planning a Harry Clarke Museum

The establishment of a new museum to celebrate the work of Harry Clarke was given the green light in July by members of the Strategic Policy Committee of Dublin City Council. The Harry Clarke Museum of Irish Stained Glass will feature windows, drawings, book illustrations and archival material by Clarke and others, with examples of groundbreaking stained-glass creations.

Significance for Art and Culture

Harry Clarke’s legacy extends far beyond his lifetime. He produced more than 130 stained glass windows, with his glass distinguished by the finesse of its drawing and his use of rich colours, and an innovative integration of the window leading as part of the overall design. For contemporary audiences in 2026, Clarke’s work serves as a bridge between Ireland’s artistic heritage and modern appreciation for craftsmanship. The ongoing exhibitions and planned museum ensure that future generations will continue to experience the magic of his intricate designs and masterful use of light and colour, cementing his position as one of the twentieth century’s greatest stained glass artists.