Elfyn Lewis creates his abstract works using layers of paint: the physicality of pushing and scraping allowing the medium to follow its own rhythm and direction. With each added layer, the previous ones are nearly hidden, yet traces remain at the edges, preserving echoes of what lies beneath.
Though primarily abstract, Lewis’ paintings evoke memories of landscape, rich with atmosphere—shadows and light. Yet they also carry an internal, psychological atmosphere. This new body of work was made following the death of his father. For Lewis, painting became a way of processing his grief, the act of making giving him an alternative focus and refuge from his thoughts. Through the creation of new works, Lewis found a renewed sense of optimism, marking a new chapter—or, in his own words, “Cyfnod newydd” A new era.
Elfyn was born and grew up in Porthmadog. He now lives and works in Cardiff. Throughout his career, Lewis has won numerous awards and prizes for his paintings, including the Gold Medal for Fine Art at the National Eisteddfod in 2009 and the prestigious Welsh Artist of the Year award in 2010. This is his third solo exhibition with the gallery.
Elfyn Lewis has written a piece of text to accompany exhibition, which can be found here.
