Meet Our Artists
Over 150 talented artists from across Anglesey and Gwynedd are harnessing the unique properties of kelp in their artworks, creating a vibrant tapestry of creativity that intertwines with environmental consciousness. These artists, inspired by this rich marine ecosystem, engage in collaborative efforts that align with our non-profit mission to educate and promote sustainability. By working closely with academics and scientists, they delve into the science of marine life, utilising kelp not just as a medium but as a catalyst for dialogue about ocean health and conservation. Each artist brings their distinctive perspective, transforming kelp into striking installations, intricate designs, and thought-provoking pieces that resonate with both the local community and visitors alike. As we celebrate their contributions, we aim to inspire a deeper understanding of our marine environments and advocate for their preservation through art-led initiatives.
Jenny Black
I am a textile artist with a background in Design Technology.
Many years ago, my A-level biology studies introduced me to the intricate beauty of cell structures seen through an electron microscope. Ever since, I have used these microscopic forms as inspiration for my embroidery. While I initially approached the world of kelp with this scientific perspective in mind, a field trip to explore kelp gardens opened up an entirely new dimension. Seeing kelp thriving in its natural environment-rather than under a laboratory lens-deeply inspired me, and it is this vibrant world I strive to capture in my pieces.
Marion Rose
I’m a printmaker, who enjoys
using old-style techniques to create contemporary images. Etching, cyanotype, linocut all require messy effort and endless inventiveness – and the resulting prints are all individually made and unique.
I try to catch moments of beauty in the wild and Anglesey is a constant source of opportunities for that.
Recently I have started exploring the changing forms and light in underwater kelp forests. It's the start of a journey and I’m excited to see where it leads.
My work appears in Oriel Môn,
Storiel, Mostyn Gallery and
during Open Studios. You can see more on Instagram
@scaleofdragon
Cathy O’Brien
My university training as a geologist gave me understanding of Earth Systems over deep time and following that my working life was very much related to sustainable resource use. Now retired, I am a long-
term member of the Gwynedd Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers and its current secretary. I enjoy making things inspired by the natural world using natural materials, I get a lot of inspiration from the shapes, forms and colours that I have seen in nature.
Sue Willis
Handspinning and weaving gave me an opportunity to explore the beauty and importance of wild, balanced natural environments.
My latest spinning and tapestry projects come after spending two very wet weeks at Ardalanish on the Isle of Mull, creating yarn every evening incorporating wool from the sheep of the valley. The rock pools on the beach were amazing in colour and variety, with beautiful kelp and many other interesting seaweeds.
Aird Fada, in nearby Loch Scridain, is a sustainably run kelp farm exploring innovative uses for the kelp crop, as well as monitoring the marine environment in which they are operating.
Simon Renshaw
Artist, Interviewer, and filmmaker.
BA in Fine Art and member of the Ffin y Parc team, I have the true pleasure and privilege of meeting and working with incredible artists from all over the world.
This project has been an amazing opportunity to learn about marine life with a fantastic selection of scientists and students. It has also been wonderful to visit and speak to the artists involved to discuss and capture their work. I am very excited about the direction this idea can take in the future and congratulate all of the contributors for their great efforts and achievements.
Thérèse Durrant
I am an artist, living in Newborough, Anglesey. In a past life, I was a primary school teacher but since retiring, I have more time to dedicate to my real passions … being outdoors, immersed in nature, coastal walks, travelling and, of course, a genuine love of art. This was passed down to me, from my Granddad, from the earliest time I could hold a pencil!
I took part in a project called “Art from the Unseen” a couple of years ago and this really sparked my interest in microscopic plankton and ocean ecosystems. As soon as I became aware of the “Bathed in Sunlight …” venture, I immediately became obsessed with a series of mixed media works which now number in the HUNDREDS! You can find me on Instagram: @tezduzart
Althea Harris
I’ve lived much of my life by the sea, including 10 years in Papua New Guinea, and I’m
always fascinated by my local seashore environment, which inspires and informs my art
work. I love the subtle organic forms and colours.
I work in a variety of media, but mainly print and textiles.
Beach-foraging for kelp was an opportunity to handle and learn about these incredible
seaweeds. Kelp beds are some of the most diverse ecosystems in the world: they capture
and absorb carbon dioxide, are home to many sea species, and can provide us with food and medicine.
The stitched kelp purse in the exhibition, was influenced by the Aboriginal kelp bags that I
saw in Hobart Art Gallery, Tasmania.
Jenny Armour
Working from my studio in Tyn-y-Gongl, Anglesey, I have the ingredients of life on my doorstep - sky, land and sea. Now we have the chance to learn about what is under the sea.
I took part in the Plankton project a couple of years ago and enjoyed the challenge of something new producing a large canvas of life beneath the waves.
I am an abstract painter and I use rollers rather than brushes allowing me the freedom of painting.
I hope I have produced something this time that will enthuse children, if not adults. I have written a poem for them too!!!
Gill Collier
After growing up in Swansea and later living in Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Bedfordshire, I moved to North Wales in 1977.
After completing an Art Foundation course in Bangor University in 2001 I have
been painting and printmaking, taking part in group exhibitions and six solo exhibitions.
I have always loved nature and gained an MSc in Conservation and Land Management at Bangor in 2007, so I welcomed the chance to take part in the Kelp Trail.
With this painting I have attempted to convey the idea of the protective arms of a kelp forest nurturing some of the sea’s valuable creatures.
Rosie Green
I am a hand weaver and hand spinner. I run SAORImôr, a weaving studio in Caernarfon where I teach saori weaving, a freestyle approach to weaving which encourages self expression over technique.
I love to weave and to create, anything from clothing to small structures. Working for exhibitions helps to push my ideas and working with the kelp has been an absolute joy and I have learned so much about the world in the waters around us here.
Alison Sherriff
Hello, I am Ali, I have been interested in art and science as two aspects of life, that seem to me to go together, for as long as I can remember. I see the world that I live in, as nature, the natural world, our planet Earth and everything that exits alive or dead.
Encouraged by my parents and sisters, when I was young, I drew. As an undiagnosed Dyslexic child who was fascinated in everything art, design, architecture, & fashion, I went to college and studied fabric printing, then as a mature student I studied Plant biology, most recently I did a course in Willow basket making. Now that I am a semi-retired gardener I am pulling all the crafts I have dabbled in together to explore being creative again.
Stay Tuned...
More inspiring artists to come!
Stay Tuned...
More inspiring artists to come!
Stay Tuned...
More inspiring artists to come!
Stay Tuned...
More inspiring artists to come!