Welsh views through the eyes of an artist
Q&A with Bill Kneale
Where are you from? Penrhyn Bay
What are your best and worst habits? My best is sketching then carrying it through to a final development. My worst is returning to some paintings to fiddle about instead of leaving it. I also forget to sign work.
THIS week we talk to artist Bill Kneale, whose work is on display at Oriel Ynys Môn, Llangefni.
Q
Tell us about your family.
A
My wife Dilys, daughter Lowri, son Dylan and granddaughter Seren are fluent Welsh speakers. I have a basic grasp. We all enjoy visiting art galleries, Dylan in particular as a member of the Tate.
Q
What are you best known for?
A
Sketching and painting landscapes, coastlines and people. I am also involved with wildlife through the RSPB.
Q Tell us about your exhibition (what’s it called, what’s it on/where is it being held?). A
My exhibition, Viewpoints, is in Oriel Ynys Môn, Llangefni. There are three subject areas: Snowdonia, studies of trees, and coast and country. Viewpoints describes the initial scene, then my own interpretation of what it is about and finally the gallery visitors response point of view.
Q
When is it running from/to?
A
Viewpoints began on October 22 and is still running. It will continue until February 9.
Q
What can people expect?
A
To see figurative impressions of places that grab your attention. Strong colours, movement with knife lines and broad brush strokes used.
Q
Tell us five things which make your exhibition great?
A
The paintings are about the atmosphere and character of North Wales, some also explore the Pembroke path. The topics are easily accessed. A variety of techniques show the versatility of acrylic paint. Brushstrokes are fresh and energetic. There is a coordinated presentation. Q
Tell us what’s good about the venue.
A
Oriel Ynys Môn is such an asset to North Wales.
The variety and contrasts of temporary and permanent exhibitions work well. The Arts Officers are skilled and encouraging. Visitors are upbeat and supportive.
Q
Who is your favourite artist and why?
A
David Hockney is still my favourite artist. He is adventurous in expression, subject and use of media. I particularly like his people paintings and charcoal drawings. Hockney exhibitions are always inspiring.
Q
What piece of work are you most proud of and why?
A
My painting of Nant Peris (inset right). I really enjoyed broad stroke brushwork to describe the powerful terrain. “Nant Peris” was a prize winner in the 2019 North Wales Open.
Q
Tell us a little-known fact about yourself:
A
After qualifying in art and design, I was a product designer before being an integrated art and design teacher. I then became a wildlife field teacher with the RSPB. I now do some volunteer work at RSPB
Conwy with some very enthusiastic conservationists.
Q What’s next for you? What are you currently working on, or what do you plan to work on?
A I am presently looking at trees in their autumn cycle. I am also curious about people on Llandudno prom – how unaware they are of the phenomenal backdrop of sea and sky.