Colleen Moloney

Born and raised in Moree, Colleen Moloney’s artistic journey began after completing high school. She moved to Sydney, where she discovered her passion for lead lighting. In 1981, Colleen enrolled in the Willoughby Arts Centre, where she spent five years immersing herself in the craft of lead lighting, refining her skills and deepening her understanding of the intricate art form.

In 1988, Colleen returned to Moree, determined to carve out her own path as a lead lighting artist. She founded Col Art Glass and quickly became known for her stunning stained-glass creations. In 1990, she began teaching lead lighting classes, a role she continues to embrace with enthusiasm today. Colleen finds great joy in guiding her students through the process of creating their own stained glass projects, whether big or small, and witnessing the sense of accomplishment they feel upon completion.

Even after 43 years of practice, Colleen still feels the nerves before handing over a commissioned piece—proof of her unwavering passion and commitment to creating meaningful, one-of-a-kind art. What originally drew her to lead lighting were the colours of the glass, the way they shimmer and shift throughout the day, casting reflections that seem to bring the glass to life. Her work reflects that appreciation for the ever-changing beauty of glass, capturing its vibrant essence in each creation. Colleen’s artistry is a blend of experience, passion, and the quiet joy of seeing others discover the magic of stained glass art for themselves.