A guide to Wales through the eyes of local artists

Richard Wilson is often regarded as the "father of British landscape painting". He was a Welsh painter who made significant contributions to the development of landscape painting as an artistic genre in Britain. Born in Penegoes, Montgomeryshire, Wales in 1714, Richard Wilson's artistic talent and passion for capturing the beauty of the natural world propelled him to great acclaim. Wilson's works displayed a deep appreciation for the British countryside, particularly the landscapes of Wales. Through his paintings, he sought to convey the sublime beauty of nature, capturing the intricate play of light, the majesty of mountains, and the serenity of valleys. His masterful compositions reflected a deep understanding of perspective, atmosphere, and the harmonious interplay between man and the natural world. His paintings showcase his ability to capture the grandeur of nature and evoke a sense of awe and tranquility. Richard Wilson's influence on British landscape painting cannot be overstated. His artistic vision and technical expertise paved the way for future generations of artists who would continue to explore and celebrate the beauty of the British landscape.

Richard Wilson’s work can inspire visitors to go explore the beautiful mountains of Wales. This is the landscape he painted the most during his career. To get the sense you are seeing a live version of Wilson’s painting, we recommend the beautiful national park of Snowdonia and specifically the Snowdon or Yr Wyddfa mountain. The highest peak in Wales is surrounded by nature that changes with the passing seasons from white snow to beautiful green grass. It is a perfect spot to feel the energy of what Richard Wilson represented in his landscape paintings of Wales.

Augustus John was a trailblazing figure known for his captivating portraits and free-spirited lifestyle. Born on January 4, 1878, in Tenby, Wales, John would go on to leave an indelible mark on the art world, becoming one of the most celebrated portraitists of his time. However, this famous artist also painted some of the most beautiful landscape paintings of Wales showcasing his versatility and artistic prowess. Though his landscape works may not have garnered the same level of recognition as his portraits, they still offer a fascinating glimpse into his artistic exploration of the natural world. John's approach to landscapes was marked by his distinctive brushwork and bold use of color. One notable aspect of John's landscape paintings is his ability to convey a deep emotional connection to the natural world. He had a keen eye for capturing the essence and mood of a particular place, whether it was the rolling hills of the Welsh countryside or the rugged coastlines of Cornwall. John's landscapes often exhibit a sense of vitality and movement. Whether he depicted wind-swept trees, crashing waves, or sun-drenched meadows, there is a palpable sense of energy in his brushwork that brings the scenes to life. Today, these landscape works serve as a reminder of Augustus John's artistic versatility and his unwavering commitment to capturing the beauty and essence of the world around him. Whether he was portraying the complexities of the human form or the majesty of the natural landscape, John's artistic vision continues to inspire and captivate audiences, cementing his place as one of the great figures in British and Welsh art history.

His versatility sometimes happened to mix the genre of landscape paintings and portraits. In his painting, “The Estuary of Mawddach”, Augustus John implemented a figure he was painting to a beautiful landscape. In this case, he is portraying in the background the Mawddach Estuary. This estuary is where the River Mawddach or Afon Mawddach in Welsh meets the sea and forms an impressive wide sandy estuary. The area is characterised by its clear turquoise waters that are definitely a must see when visiting Wales!

Kyffin Williams, another renowned Welsh artist, is celebrated for his distinctive and evocative depictions of the Welsh landscape and its people. Born on May 9, 1918, in Llangefni, Anglesey, Williams developed a unique artistic style that captured the rugged beauty and rich heritage of Wales. Williams' artistic journey began at the Slade School of Fine Art in London, where he honed his skills and embraced the influences of the great masters. However, it was his return to Wales and his deep connection to its landscapes and communities that truly shaped his artistic voice. One of the defining features of Williams' work is his masterful use of texture and brushwork. He often employed thick impasto techniques, applying paint with bold and expressive strokes that brought his subjects to life. This distinctive style not only added a tactile quality to his paintings but also conveyed the raw and untamed nature of the Welsh countryside. Through his landscapes, Williams captured the essence of Wales, showcasing its rugged mountains, sweeping valleys, and turbulent seas. His paintings exude a sense of drama and melancholy, often depicting stormy skies, craggy cliffs, and isolated cottages that stand as testaments to the resilience of the Welsh people. Through his distinct style and unwavering dedication to his craft, Kyffin Williams remains a revered figure in Welsh art, leaving an enduring mark on the art world as a whole.

Much like ike the father of British landscape paintings Richard Wilson, Kyffin Williams also liked to paint mountains. However, Kyffin Williams also managed to capture the beautiful beaches of Wales through his impeccable brushwork, particularly the Conwy Morfa Beach which he painted in 2002. That is why we recommend you visit the large sandy beach of Conwy Morfa for yourself and get a sense of why the site was so important to the artist. You’ll have the opportunity to build sandcastles, paddle, and enjoy the scenery of the beach. There’s no time like the present to make the most of all it has to offer!