Iolo is all set to be a real oil painting...
THE naturalist Iolo Williams has become an icon of the world of Welsh nature thanks to his enthusiasm for wildlife and the fact that he’s a natural in front of the camera. But how comfortable will he be with a completely different medium – paint and brush?
In the second programme of the new series of Cymry ar Gynfas (The Welsh on Canvas) on Wednesday, April 21, at 9pm, a portrait of Iolo will be painted by the artist Meinir Mathias, who has a studio in Talgarreg, Ceredigion.
Every week, Cymry ar Gynfas brings together a Welsh icon and artist to create a portrait which reflects the personality of the well-known face and the unique style of each artist.
And as well as revealing the finished portrait at the end of the episode, each programme offers an open and honest portrait of the icon and the artist as they talk about their experiences of painting and being painted.
Meinir is an artist who works mostly in oils and produces work inspired by Welsh history, stories and culture but enjoys using bright colours and patterns in her work too.
Iolo and Meinir meet in a place that is very close to Iolo’s heart, namely Rhiwargor waterfall near Lake Fyrnwy. The valley and the path up to the waterfall is full of wonderful childhood memories for Iolo and he remembers the first time that he went to this place, which inspired him to pursue the field he specialises in today.
The unveiling happens two months later in Oriel Canfas, Aberteifi. Has Meinir succeeded in capturing the energy and spirit of some of Iolo’s favourite things and will the importance of this area to his life be reflected in the finished piece?
Don’t miss the next episode in Cymry ar Gynfas on April 21, 9pm, for the answers and to see the finished portrait.