The quiet beauty of rural North Wales is about to be celebrated in a new exhibition at Llandudno's Ffin y Parc Gallery. This highly anticipated event showcases the work of Stephen John Owen, a self-taught artist whose paintings capture the essence of his surroundings with a unique blend of subtlety and boldness. Owen's latest collection, titled 'New Works', will be on display from August 7th to 29th, 2026, featuring 25 new paintings inspired by the landscapes and rural life of North Wales. Owen's work is a testament to the artist's deep connection with his environment, as he invests 'familiar and often lowly scenes with dignity and humanity'.
Owen's paintings are characterized by their graphic quality, combining simple shapes and contrasting blocks of color to capture the effects of time and weather on the natural and manmade elements of the landscape. The works depict windswept fields, exposed trees, and sagging cottages, all set against oblivious skies. This approach is both recognizable and accessible, reflecting the stoicism and perseverance of Owen's community and the specific character of his environment. Owen's ability to capture the essence of his surroundings with sincerity and affection is what makes his work so compelling.
This exhibition is a celebration of Owen's return to painting after a period of serious illness, and it coincides with the gallery's Summer Show, which features an eclectic mix of new works from other artists represented by Ffin y Parc. The gallery, which first opened in the Conwy Valley in 2010, is now the largest commercial gallery in Wales, representing over 40 artists. It hosts a regularly changing program of exhibitions showcasing a wide range of art forms, from landscapes and figurative painting to sculpture and ceramics.
Owen has previously exhibited twice at Ffin y Parc, including a major solo exhibition in 2019 to celebrate his 60th birthday. The exhibition is a must-see for art enthusiasts and anyone interested in the beauty and resilience of rural Wales. Owen's work not only captures the physical landscape but also the human spirit that thrives within it, making it a truly special and thought-provoking experience.
