The Roots of Humanity Foundation, partnered with Holdman Studios, has plans to unveil a radiant stained glass structure in Lehi, Utah.
This triumph of engineering is titled the “Sphere of Light.” Members of the public will be able to immerse themselves in four different levels, each one showcasing different decorative stained and blown glass masterpieces.
Holdman Studios has created stained glass art for more than 50 temples for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They are also well-known for their stained glass project titled “Roots of Knowledge,” showcased at the Fulton Library at Utah Valley University.
Tom Holdman and Gayle Holdman are the couple behind these works of art. They have been crafting art glass since 1991 and have been commissioned worldwide to bring light to various buildings.
With every artistic feat of Holdman Studios’ work, there is some hidden meaning behind the piece. The “Sphere of Light” will be no exception.
“Part of Holdman Studios’ foundational style is to layer meanings within the art," Gayle Holdman said. "So certainly there will be hidden gems to find throughout the more obvious.”
Gayle Holdman continued by explaining that the project will feature historical moments and figures, but the specific details “will be part of the joy of the reveal.”
Within “The Sphere of Light” will be seven different stained glass panel series, each one representing a noble characteristic. These characteristics are knowledge, creativity, faith, love, unity, freedom and courage.
“The intended message or feeling of 'Sphere of Light' is to create an environment, where each human being who visits can get a greater perspective of their worth and value in the world, along with a greater understanding of the worth and value of everyone around them,” Gayle Holdman said.
The “Sphere of Light” will be connected to other global art pieces, all while featuring its own Holdman flair.
Two structures that sparked inspiration were the Basílica de la Sagrada Família in Barcelona and the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris.
“Each of those locations surround the viewer in color and bathe them in glorious light,” Gayle Holdman said. “It’s a transcendent and life altering experience. We hope the ‘Sphere’ will join them in that accomplishment.”
Though the project isn’t set to be completed until 2030, the people of Utah can still ponder what this inspiring art can represent in their own lives and look forward to immersing themselves in the “Sphere.”
“Our hope is that the ‘Sphere of Light’ will be a place of refuge and reflection, education and enlightenment, hope and harmony and of unity and understanding,” Gayle Holdman said. “Utah is a diverse population of good people who have many desires to add to the world in positive ways. We want to highlight that aspect of our beautiful state and possibly even encourage more!”
To explore models and renderings of the monument, visit rootsofhumanity.org. Those interested can also follow the construction on social media @roots.of.humanity and @thesphereoflight.