Christopher Michalek is a self-taught stained glass artist based in Sussex County, New Jersey. His passion for glass ignited during a childhood class trip to Wheaton Village, now known as WheatonArts. From bottle hunting to serving as a glassblowing apprentice in Seattle, Christopher has always been captivated by the beauty of glass.

Over the years, he has contributed to various mosaic glass mural projects in and around South Philadelphia. His journey with glass truly began during a dark chapter in his life. Christopher recalls, “My dad knew I needed something to help pull me out of this dark place.” A porcelain artist himself, Christopher’s father bought out a local stained glass studio, providing Christopher with an abundance of glass, supplies, and a simple 95-page paperback guide. This became the foundation for an exciting new adventure that would transform his life.

Tragically, Christopher lost his father after a long battle with cancer. The loss was incredibly difficult for him and his family, but he found solace in his glasswork. “I knew I could help others with this gift from above,” he shares. Though the path was not easy, his passion for art slowly became a source of healing.

Christopher’s first attempt at showcasing his work in an art gallery didn’t go as planned, but he viewed it as a priceless learning experience. Today, he operates a small stained glass studio in Franklin Borough, NJ. Reflecting on his journey, Christopher believes that everything happens for a reason. While he acknowledges past mistakes, he understands that they have shaped who he is today.

Determined to uplift others through his love for art, Christopher embraces the philosophy of planting seeds of hope for a better tomorrow. For him, it’s not just a motto—it’s a way of life. ☮️❤️🎨