Around 2014, I had an idea for a group of female artists to create pieces of work based on their interpretations of the Mabinogion, but I knew I needed to explore, reflect, and work with others who would connect with the idea in the same way.
I chose these particular Tales because I am fascinated with metamorphosis, transformation, changing identity and form, and the different perspectives of those who have choice in their shape-shifting, and those who do not. These themes and ideas are ever-present throughout history, as they are today.
Making the creatures, some of whom began in human form, some who became human, and those that had a role to play in others changes, has been a fascinationg journey, and I often find myself returning to the theme, exploring where it takes me, and learning about my own changes through the process
In 2021, I invited Francesca Kay (poet and paper artist), Karin Mear (painter), Amanda Rose (ceramicist and illustrator), and Hetta Johnson (charcoal artist) to collaborate, and to see where that led us… to explore the eclectic and fascinating tales and portray our interpretations. This project depicts our insights in paint, textiles, paper, prose, pottery and charcoal, creating the creatures and their metamorphoses within the Tales of the Mabinogi… I’m so thrilled that this has come to fruition… five artists, with different styles and perspectives, from five different disciplines, weaving a contemporary thread through ancient folklore.
From December 2021 to January 2022, we exhibited in Hay, at Oil & Oak, and in May 2022, we took our touring exhibition, with some new work, to The Makers Gallery in Crickhowell.
We are always looking for new venues to exhibit, so please do get in touch if you would like to host the Tales of the Mabinogi. We can also offer readings and talks alongside the events.
“A unique and entrancing exhibition”
“ Fantastic. Very inspiring to see different ideas.”
“Very hard to portray and come up with in a day & age when everything has been done already. Great exhibition “
