Exposed

B. Gunar Gruenke

At present, Mr. Gruenke is the Vice President and Master Craftsperson at Conrad Schmitt Studios in New Berlin, Wisconsin. Conrad Schmitt Studios is an internationally recognized art studio specializing in various techniques and procedures including the investigation and documentation of original decorative schemes, gilding, glazing, marbleizing, and stenciling as well as the new design, replication or conservation of stained glass and murals since 1889.

Mr. Gruenke oversees all facets of studio operations including managing and supervising restoration and renovation projects as well as the coordination of all phases of the craft associated with decorative interior schemes. Mr. Gruenke has authored numerous publications on stained glass as well as written articles on decorative arts for trade publications such as Traditional Building Magazine, Church Executive, PWC: Painting and Wallcovering Contractor, Religious Product News, and The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. He has spoken on television news features and has addressed audiences including the Restoration & Renovation Conference, the NeoCon World’s Trade Fair, the Power of Paint and Coatings Conference, and at the Savannah College of Art and Design. Mr. Gruenke also serves as the President of the Stained Glass Association of America and on the Board of the Western Great Lakes Chapter of the Association for Preservation Technology.

Mr. Gruenke has worked for Conrad Schmitt Studios since the age of seven years old, under the tutelage of his grandfather, Bernard O. Gruenke, his father, Bernard E. Gruenke, both nationally recognized ecclesiastical artists, as well as various other fine artists from around the world. He holds a Business Administration Degree with a major in General Business and emphasis in Economics and Finance from the University of Wisconsin, Whitewater.