Artist: Colin Palmer

Artist’s Statement

Born in Pembroke Dock 1931, Colin Palmer completed his Fine Art Degree in Swansea College of Art in 1954. He began his teaching career at the Bishop Gore School, Swansea before taking up the Head of Art post at Barmouth Grammar School (later moving to Harlech as Ysgol Ardudwy); where Colin remained until retirement in 1991. He also served as an examinations moderator in Art and Design with the Welsh Joint Education Committee for over 25 years.

During his teaching years, Colin continued to paint, but did not exhibit regularly. But since 1991, he has painted continuously and has had many one man shows throughout North Wales, and three shared exhibitions here at Oriel Plas Glyn y Weddw. Over this period his work has ranged widely from representational to abstract, but all the works have been inspired by his Gwynedd environmental.

Just over a year ago he engaged in a programme of work dedicated to the slate industry in Gwynedd. Recently he has extended his research to include the nature of slate as the raw material from which to glean patterns, shapes and textures.

“As I walk through the slate waste of Rhosydd, I see at my feet a landscape more compelling than when I raise my eyes to the horizon.”