Wilf Roberts - Images of an Island

"Uwch-y-Gors"

Wilf Roberts was born in 1941 on the Isle of Anglesey in North Wales where he now lives and works. Welsh is his first language, indeed he spoke little English until he was ten. On leaving school he undertook teacher training then moved to London where he taught art for some thirteen years. At this time he not only attended Croydon Art College on a part time basis, but also successfully exhibited his work in solo and mixed shows both in South London and the West End.

In 1974 he returned to live on Anglesey and although not exhibiting publicly for many years, he continued to paint the rugged beauty of his surroundings. He accepted commissions, donated works, and designed posters for national charities. Since his retirement in 1996 he has painted full time. A number of successful solo shows have followed, and he has seen his reputation grow. He is regarded as one of the finest, individualistic and popular artists currently working in North Wales.

The main subject of his work is the Anglesey landscape. He draws inspiration from the sublime but simple beauty of his homeland and most particularly from the rocky grandeur around Mynydd Bodafon where he lives. Working exclusively with oils and acrylics he produces strong, evocative work that captures both the brooding starkness and inherent tranquillity that is so typical of the Island landscape.

"Heath"

"My interest in drawing and painting is something I have been brought up with - it has always been there as an integral part of my life. The privilege of growing up in one of the most beautiful and picturesque parts of Ynys Mon (Anglesey) probably had a considerable influence in my early development as a person and as a budding artist.

This exhibition is about the love and affinity I have with the Island and in particular my own square mile at Mynydd Bodafon - for this is where I live and work, its paths are familiar to me and it's where I'm most comfortable.

My method of working varies according to my feelings at the time and will employ any number of ways to achieve the end result. I do start with a sketch, or part of a sketch, and will transfer the preferred image onto the surface to be painted, which again can vary considerably. I work on canvas, board or paper but will always prepare the surface carefully before proceeding. I begin painting using a fairly loose technique, allowing the paint to dictate the mood - continually adding until I am satisfied that the work is either complete or that I can proceed no further for the time being. I think technique develops gradually over the years as one builds up one's skill base and confidence."