The Studio
Formed in 2017 by Tom O'Connell in Stonington, Connecticut, where his studio is located. Tom, a 50-year advertising veteran, lived many years in France, Italy and Germany. It was particularly his eight years in Italy that developed a keen interest in stained glass.
"It was my years in Italy that opened my eyes to the world of stained glass — the light, the color, the centuries of craft behind every panel."
Training & Apprenticeship
This ultimately led Tom to take practical courses back in the States under the direction of Fabio Pizzolli, a world-renowned stained glass artist who specializes in glass restoration. As a result, Tom then took an extended apprenticeship in Siena at the studio Vetrate Artistiche Toscane under the direction of owners Gianni and Massimo Bracciali.
There he fine-tuned his skills in cutting, painting and assembling stained glass panels, which had been commissioned for Villanova University in Philadelphia.
Years Abroad
Lived in France, Italy, and Germany — eight years in Italy sparking a deep passion for stained glass.
Studying with Fabio Pizzolli
Practical courses under a world-renowned stained glass artist specializing in glass restoration.
Vetrate Artistiche Toscane
Extended apprenticeship under Gianni and Massimo Bracciali — cutting, painting, and assembling panels for Villanova University.
O'Connell Glass Studio
Studio established in Stonington, CT — creating whimsical and practical glass art for homes across the region.
Today's Work
Passionate about stained glass, Tom works to create relatively small objects, sometimes whimsical and abstract, but mostly practical, to help bring the beauty and fun of glass to people's homes. He has had several commissions and is currently focused on building a collection of "funny birds," candle holders, small bowls and dishes in many shapes and sizes.
Leaded, Foiled & Kiln-Fired
His work started out with leaded pieces and foiled objects, but the main direction of his work now is working with kiln-fired glass. He enjoys the latter most as it brings the beauty of glass to its full potential — and the firing process is a continuation of the creative process.