Sixty new works for artist’s 60th birthday exhibition

FROM the silent mountains to the roaring seas, it is plain to see why the North Wales countryside and coast have been a constant source of inspiration to landscape painter Stephen John Owen.

The highly collectable artist has produced 60 works for a special exhibition to celebrate his 60th birthday at the awardwinning Ffin y Parc Gallery this month.

Growing up on a council estate meant the countryside was an escape for Stephen as a youngster and an opportunity to explore it was always enthusiastically taken.

He explained: “All the paintings in this exhibition have a very personal meaning for me.

“They are made of memories, some of them from right back when I was a child.

“I used to love travelling round the I’m out sketching I have feelings of breathless joy and gratitude for my little corner of the world.”

Born in Caernarfon in 1959, Stephen now lives in Groeslon.

The self-taught artist is exhibiting his work, his largest show to date, at Ffin y Parc Gallery, near Llanrwst.

“Stephen’s approach is open, simple and sincere,” explained gallery owner Ralph Sanders.

“The work emerges from his love for and connection to these places and his desire to be absolutely nowhere else!” Also exhibiting at Ffin y Parc throughout February is popular ceramic artist Willie Carter.

Willie was born in Wick in Northern Scotland and worked as a chef before changing direction training in ceramics at Chesterfield Art College.

He is now settled in his studio in Wrexham, where he has been working for 25 years.

Regarding his work Willie explained: “My sculptures capture the personality of the subject, which I hope puts a smile of people’s faces, as my purpose is to evoke emotions.”

“We always have a selection of Willie’s platters and jars at the gallery,” added Ralph.

“This is the second show of his more sculptural works, following his sell-out show with us in 2017.

“His figures are full of energy and character and sure to raise a smile.” ■ The joint exhibition of work by Stephen John Owen and Willie Carter will be on display at Ffin y Parc Gallery, Betws Road, Llanrwst until Wednesday, February 27. 01492 642070 www.welshart.net