An exhibition highlights the response of two artists, working in different media, to the Pembrokeshire landscape in all its moods.
The changeable weather we have been experiencing recently is both a challenge and an inspiration to painter Ray Burnell; one moment his subject is clouded in mist and the next a sunbeam theatrically lights the scene, providing Ray with just the drama that inspires his work.
As a Welsh learner, he realises there is a deep connection between the language and the landscape, its dramatic forms and colours echoed by its history.
As an “on the spot” painter, he brings this to life, despite the practical challenges – such as sending off horseflies and the Preseli ponies making off with his sandwiches!
Showing alongside Ray is Billy Adams, setting himself the difficult task of combining the traditional use of ceramics as vessels, with strong elements of the Pembrokeshire coast and countryside.
In his hands, a shape will rise off the wheel -essentially a jug - but at the same time the form echoes a wave breaking on the rocks beneath it, capturing both the movement of the ocean while retaining its purpose for holding liquid.
Using three different clays and exploiting their different shrinking rates, his hand-built pieces reveal textured surfaces, even sometimes cracked with fissures, recalling his rugged surroundings in West Wales and memories of his home in Ireland.
In the window, artist of the month is another ceramicist, Viv Albilston, using the clay in an almost playful way, while sharing her space is Caroline Simone, a mixed media artist whose work is full of surprises, where movement, light and colour rise out of the most unconventional materials.
Narberth's Oriel Q Gallery brings this outstanding “ Canvas and Clay” show out on Friday, September 8 and it will run on until October 7.
A great variation in approach awaits the visitor to Oriel, Q Gallery, at 11 Market Street, Narberth, SA67 7AX. Open Wednesdays to Fridays, 10 am to 4pm. Telephone 01834 218894.