AN ARTIST from Anglesey has presented a painting of Rhuddlan Castle to the Mayor of Rhuddlan Mike Elgin, for the people of the town to enjoy.
Gwynfor Griffiths, who now lives in Rhyl, recently held a month-long exhibition of his work at the Oriel Môn Art Gallery in Llangefni, Anglesey.
Mr Griffiths originally set his heart on a career in art but was forced to stop pursuing his dream in adolescence.
“Since the age of five I started scribbling sketches in pencil, things around the house like chairs, clocks and flowers,” Mr Griffiths said.
“Then, at about ten years of age, I started painting in watercolours – old houses, farms, churches.”
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Mr Griffiths grew up in Rhosgoch, Anglesey with his grandmother, before attending Syr Thomas Jones’ School in Amlwch, Anglesey, where he gained an Advance Level in Art.
His excellence at the craft enabled him to attend Frias School of Art in Cardiff, where he passed the practical examination and was offered a place in the College in September 1953.
Sadly, due to receiving insufficient grants from education authorities, the young artist was forced to give up his passion, and soon joined the Welsh Guards, where he would remain for two years.
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In 1957, Mr Griffiths joined the Gwynedd Constabulary and later the North Wales Police, serving most of his career in the Criminal Investigation Department.
Following his retirement, he returned to painting, and it was through the self-promotion of his work on Facebook that he was noticed by the Oriel Môn.
Gwynfor Griffiths’ inspiration for his paintings varies, from beautiful scenic landscapes, marinas, and old churches to wildlife and portraits.
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He is particularly fond of the Rhuddlan Castle vista.
Mike Elgin said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to exhibit the wonderful painting of Rhuddlan Castle by Gwynfor Lloyd Griffiths here in Rhuddlan and hope to display it in our new Community hub in Admirals Fields when it is completed this summer."
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