For over five decades, William Lupkin has been shaping light and color through the timeless craft of stained glass design and restoration. His journey began as a young boy, mesmerized by the glowing stained glass windows of St. Andrew’s Church in Fort Wayne.
That early fascination evolved into a lifelong career dedicated to creating and preserving stunning stained glass, mosaics and murals for religious, commercial and residential spaces.
Lupkin began his career with an apprenticeship at City Glass, where he immersed himself in the fundamentals of stained glass painting and fabrication. He later co-founded a glass studio in Scottsdale, Arizona, where he refined his expertise over seven years before returning to Fort Wayne.
In the late 1980s, after serving as head designer at City Glass, he launched William L. Lupkin Designs, turning his passion for custom glasswork and restoration into a thriving independent studio.
His portfolio includes intricate church window restorations, large-scale mosaics and modern stained glass installations, with notable projects for Eddie Merlot’s restaurants and Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church.
Rooted in traditional craftsmanship, Lupkin upholds the centuries-old practice of apprenticeship, mentoring emerging artists, including his sons, to make certain the art of stained glass endures. His studio continues to be a trusted name in stained glass design, blending history and artistry into every project.
Despite his extensive experience, Lupkin remains a lifelong student of the craft. “I don’t consider myself a master. I know what I can do and I’m good at it. But as soon as you say you’ve mastered something, you’re done. There’s still too much that I want to figure out yet.”
