Additional Material

Reading Groups - Unit 2

The Reading Groups were concluded in Unit 2 during our last week after the Summer Show. We were challenged to elect our own piece of writing/essay and I chose and presented on a piece about the lesser known work of photographer Robert Frank. I particularly enjoyed this session and in hearing from fellow students and their chosen readings. The research area of the course has been both enjoyable and productive and I have certainly taken every opportunity of immersing myself in all of the libraries across the college including the archive section at LCC which holds a number of beautiful prints from the photographer Colin Jones. I have every intention of utilising these facilities going forward.

References:

Under Milk Wood Exhibition

Hywel Davies 2025 Photographic print 40 x 50 cm
Exhibited at the Queen St Gallery, Neath, South Wales as part of an Under Milk Wood themed exhibition.

This piece which I photographed of a couple during the summer whilst in Laugharne, Carmarthenshire was based upon the theme of “Under Milk Wood” by Dylan Thomas and shown at a gallery in Neath, South Wales as part of their Arts Celebration month. One of my favourite plays, written by Thomas for the radio and is first and foremost a celebration of people. I met the couple who were down in Laugharne for the day out as I was photographing the area and I was immediately taken by them. They were so at ease with each other and a joy to speak with. By coincidence they were down from Neath where the exhibition was to be held and my one regret was that I did not spend more time with them. One of the highlights of my summer without doubt. I believe the photographs works in that same way as that of Martin Parr and many of the other artists I have referenced. Of capturing something natural and honest.

Also showing in Neath at the same time was an exhibition relating to the great Welsh actor Richard Burton which led me to a re reading of the excellent book “Rich” by Melvin Bragg. Burton a celebrated actor and welsh speaker is very much an inspirational character who rose to prominence from the most challenging of backgrounds. A fascinating read about resilience and the human spirit. Bragg,Melvyn, 2010, Rich: The Life of Richard Burton, UK, Sceptre

Summer Show Exhibition

During the preparation for the Summer Show exhibition, I consulted extensively with the Head of MA Fine Art Printmaking, researching the work of artists such as Elena Damiani, Anselm Kiefer, and Herzog and De Meuron. The exhibition work was titled “Gwaith Taclus” (Precision Work), with plans to print and stencil the title on the pieces. Following the exhibition, I received a commission to create prints for a conference room and reception area.

Further Research

Extensive research was conducted in the Pontarddulais area, including:

These research activities have informed the broader context of the work, particularly in understanding the relationship between industry, community, and cultural identity in South Wales.