Alison Bradley Brushstrokes of Rural Beauty

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of rural landscapes in North Wales at the Eryrys Popup Gallery on July 23rd. This exclusive event is an opportunity to witness the creative process first-hand and engage in conversation with Alison Bradley, a talented local artist. With her marvellous artwork capturing the essence of the region’s natural beauty, prepare to be mesmerized by Alison’s artwork.

How did you become such a renowned North Wales Artist and what is your artistic background?

I studied Art and Design in Nottingham and Textile Design at University in Manchester. Moving to Wales in 2004 inspired me to pick up my brushes and paint the landscape, and the farmers with their livestock. From meeting customers at rural fairs and farmers markets, and exhibiting at the RCA, I developed a following and in 2008 I opened a gallery of my work in Betws-y-coed with my partner Jon, which we later moved to Chester.

What is your working method and your favourite materials?

I enjoy observational drawing and painting in the landscape, and I often develop the sketches into larger pieces in the studio. I also take some reference photographs as memory joggers for when I’m back at base. I work mainly in oils or charcoal, but also use pastels and gouache.

What is your most successful work or your favorite subject?

My favorite subject tends to be whatever I’m currently working on. I become absorbed in a painting and then move on to the next one. I don’t really have a favorite subject, but am inspired by the seasons and changing weather in the landscapes around me.

What does it mean to be an artist in North Wales and what is so inspiring about the region?

I made North Wales my home nearly 20 years ago and found it had a rich artistic history with artists either from the area, or travelling here to paint the striking landscape. It is fascinating to visit some of the places painted by these artists over the centuries, and then give my own contemporary interpretation. There is a thriving artistic community in Wales today and I’m looking forward to joining others for “Hidden Talents” in Eryrys.

You have your own gallery but how difficult is the path of an artist to be able to live off their art?

It is important to find the people who have a connection with your art. My customers are people who love the mountains, coast and landscapes of the places I paint such as North Wales, The Lake District and Yorkshire, and the rural ways of life there. We have always made an effort to meet with our customers and have found selling directly to them at the gallery a good way of building relationships. We always aim to give the best service we can at the gallery, and love it when we get the opportunity to go the extra mile for someone.

You also propose a framing service. Can you give us some details?

My partner Jon runs a bespoke framing service for my work or other pieces. We have an extensive selection of frames, including contemporary aluminium and the very finest swept frames. We use museum quality pure-cotton mountboards and extra-clear specialist art glass to enhance and protect the artwork.

Is there any other way –outside of your gallery –where people can meet you and watch you at work?

I don’t do many events outside the gallery, but I will be displaying my work at “Hidden Talents” at Canolfan Dewi Sant on Sunday 23rd July, 11am –3pm.

Apart from that, it is always a pleasure to chat with people I bump into when I’m out painting plein air.