The new Alloa Academy will be home to a magnificent window created by one of the world's leading glass artists.

And local people will have a chance to have their work incorporated into the design at a series of forthcoming workshops.

Alec Galloway is Head of Architectural Glass at Edinburgh College of Art, but still finds time to travel the world participating in a wide variety of projects. He has been commissioned by Clackmannanshire Council to create a large scale architectural glass installation within the new Alloa Academy.

Alec is holding three workshops at Alloa-based Retroglass next month where attendees will learn about glass painting techniques and design and be able to contribute towards the final art work.

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Alec said: "I will be teaching people about traditional kiln-fired glass painting which is a simple process under supervision, but adds detail, texture, shading and depth to a design. I will be incorporating the finished pieces into my final work."

Alec's designs for the window have been influenced by Alloa's industrial past and will also include crows - a motif that regularly occurs in Alec's work.

"The window will be in the school's main entrance and I hope it will have a significant impact. I really hope those attending the workshops will take pride in the fact that their work will be included in the installation," he added.

Born in Greenock, Alec's art encompasses both the traditional and contemporary. From 1997 to 2000 he designed for one of the Middle East's largest glass studios based in Dubai. He undertook projects for many of the country's most prestigious buildings including the famous Burj Al Arab (the tallest hotel in the world) and the Wafi mall which houses the Middle East's largest stained glass window.

The workshops are open to all local people of every level and ability, but places are limited so booking is essential. The workshops take place at Retroglass, Unit 1, Carsebridge Court, Cooperage Way, Alloa, FK10 3LQ, from 4 - 8pm on Thursday 4th September, Friday 5th September and Thursday 11th September.

(GK/JM)