Tryweryn sculptor takes over Gregynog Gallery

Fri, 06 Mar 09 17:29:00

 

The popular Welsh sculptor John Meirion Morris will take over the Gregynog Gallery between 28 February and 29 May 2009 in a special retrospective exhibition of his work. This will be the first time the Gallery, the biggest single exhibition space in Wales, has been allocated to the work of a single sculptor.

 

Born and raised in Llanuwchllyn, near Bala, John Meirion Morris became a professional sculptor in 1995 having taught as a university lecturer in England, Ghana and Wales for almost 30 years.

 

In 1989 he was awarded an M.Phil. at the University of Bangor for research into Celtic art. Celtic mythology, and the Mabinogi in particular, are a primary influence on his work. Sculptures in the exhibition include pieces entitled Lleu, Blodeuwedd and Rhiannon. In 2003 he published a book based on his M.Phil. entitled, Celtic Vision.

 

The exhibition will also feature John Meirion Morris’ most recognisable work, the Tryweryn monument. The proposed monument would stand on the banks of Llyn Celyn in the shape of a giant symbolic water bird whose outstretched wings shelter a choir singing out in protest. He said the work was a passionate gut reaction to the decision to drown the community of Capel Celyn to create a reservoir for Liverpool Corporation.

 

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, wrote of John Meirion Morris’ sculptures, ‘they are exciting - remarkable, powerful, elegant, with a kind of fluency. They have made a deep impression on me.’

 

Along with his Celtic inspired pieces, the exhibition will also showcase John Meirion Morris’ portraitures. Familiar faces will include the late T Llew Jones and  Gwenallt along with Gerallt Lloyd Owen and Gwyn Thomas.

 

According to Arwel Jones, Director of Public Services, ‘John Meirion Morris's work is full of excitement and tension and will appeal to a wide and varied audience. The National Library is extremely privileged to be able to play host to this exhibition and one of Wales’s most important contemporary artists.’

 

 

28 February 2009 - 29 May 2009

John Meirion Morris – Presence

A retrospective look at the work of Wales’ most popular sculptor

 

Gallery Talk with John Meirion Morris

14 May 13:15 - 14:15 (English talk)

14 May 16:00 - 17:00 (Welsh talk)

A gallery talk given by the sculptor from Llanuwchlyn about his current exhibition - Presence.

Free Event

 

Opening Times

Until 1 April 2009: Monday- Saturday 10:00-17:00

After 1 April 2009: Monday- Friday 10:00-17:00

Closed Weekends and Public Holidays – Please see Library website for details.

 

 

Press Office

Medi Jones-Jackson

medi.jones-jackson@llgc.org.uk

01970 632 534