top of page
Writer's pictureMichael James

Glyn Davies: Capturing the Essence of North Wales

Updated: Sep 25, 2023

Glyn Davies: Capturing the Essence of North Wales

Glyn Davies is a photographer based in Wales who specializes in capturing the beauty and diversity of the Welsh landscape. He has been photographing the natural and cultural heritage of Wales for over 30 years, and his work has been exhibited and published internationally. Glyn Davies uses a variety of techniques and equipment to create stunning images that reflect his passion and respect for the land and its people.

Introduction

In the picturesque region of North Wales, a talented photographer named Glyn Davies has made a name for himself by capturing the breathtaking landscapes that define the area. With his unique vision and passion for the natural world, Davies has become renowned for his ability to evoke emotions and transport viewers to the heart of the Welsh countryside. This article delves into the life and work of Glyn Davies, exploring his journey as a photographer, the impact of the pandemic on his art, and the success of his gallery in Menai Bridge.


Early Beginnings and Passion for Landscapes

Davies' love affair with photography began during his school years in Falmouth. Inspired by geography and fascinated by landforms, he longed to capture the beauty of landscapes through his own lens. Equipped with a post-war Leica rangefinder, he embarked on a photography project in the Yorkshire Dales, photographing limestone features and immersing himself in the process of creating images. Though his first attempt ended in disappointment due to a technical mishap, Davies' determination led him to exchange his camera for a Nikon FM, marking the beginning of his journey as a photographer.


The Journey Through Lockdown

The onset of the pandemic took an unexpected turn for Davies when he found himself stranded in South Africa during a family wedding. As the world went into lockdown, Davies and his loved ones were confined to a house with a walled garden, unable to explore the beautiful landscapes they had anticipated. In this challenging situation, Davies turned to his iPhone as a solace and a creative outlet. He began documenting his surroundings within the garden, finding beauty and solace in the smallest details. Through his lens, he discovered landscapes within the confines of his temporary home, capturing the essence of nature and finding a sense of purpose amidst uncertainty.


Oriel Glyn Davies Gallery: A Haven for Landscape Art

Located in the heart of Menai Bridge, the Oriel Glyn Davies Gallery stands as a testament to the artist's passion and dedication. The gallery, run by Glyn Davies himself, offers visitors a unique experience as they step into a space that defies expectations. Though seemingly small from the outside, the gallery surprises visitors with four different rooms spread across two floors. Inside, a vast collection of Welsh landscape prints awaits, with each image available in various sizes, ensuring exclusivity and artistic value.


A Personal Touch and Unparalleled Quality

One of the distinguishing factors of the Oriel Glyn Davies Gallery is the personal touch provided by the artist himself. Glyn Davies is known for his approachable and chatty demeanor, gladly sharing the stories behind his images with visitors. The gallery exudes a welcoming atmosphere, with beautiful music playing in the background and no pressure to make a purchase. If a desired print is not available in the desired size during a visit, Glyn and his dedicated staff are often able to complete prints and framing on the same day, ensuring customer satisfaction and prompt service.


Limited Edition Prints: A Testament to Craftsmanship

When it comes to the prints displayed at the Oriel Glyn Davies Gallery, quality and exclusivity are of utmost importance. Each print is individually crafted by Glyn himself, ensuring meticulous attention to detail and artistic integrity. The prints are made on archival fine-art paper with a lifespan of over 200 years, emphasizing the longevity and value of these pieces. Unlike mass-produced prints, Glyn's editions are limited, ranging from as few as three to a maximum of thirty copies, further enhancing their desirability and collectability.


Recognitions and Achievements

Glyn Davies' talent and dedication have not gone unnoticed, with his work receiving numerous accolades and media recognition. His striking images have been featured on television series such as "The Island Strait" and "ARTE TV 'Islands of the Queen'". In prestigious photography competitions, his photographs have garnered honorable mentions and nominations, including the International COLOUR Awards and the International Black & White Spider Awards. These recognitions further solidify Glyn Davies' position as one of the leading photographers in the landscape genre.


Sharing the Beauty: Books and Greetings Cards

In addition to his gallery, Glyn Davies extends his artistic vision through the publication of books and greetings cards. These tangible expressions of his work allow admirers to bring a piece of his art into their own homes. Whether it's a coffee table book showcasing the breadth of his portfolio or a carefully crafted greetings card capturing a specific moment, these items serve as reminders of the beauty and serenity found in the landscapes of North Wales.


Footless Crow: Celebrating British Outdoor Writing

Outside of his own photography, Glyn Davies supports and contributes to Footless Crow, a unique "blogazine" that aims to showcase the best of British outdoor writing. Emulating the spirit of publications like Loose Scree and The Angry Corrie, Footless Crow provides a platform for both established and emerging writers to share their experiences and perspectives. Davies recognizes the value of traditional mountaineering literature and hopes to continue promoting its virtues through this non-commercial media platform.


Conclusion: Glyn Davies' Enduring Legacy

Glyn Davies' journey as a photographer has been one of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering dedication to capturing the essence of North Wales' landscapes. From his early days exploring landforms with a Nikon FM to his current status as a renowned artist and gallery owner, Davies has left an indelible mark on the world of landscape photography. Through his gallery, he invites visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of Welsh landscapes, while his publications and contributions to Footless Crow ensure that his legacy continues to inspire and celebrate the wonders of the natural world for generations to come.



Glyn Davies is a photographer based in Wales who specializes in capturing the beauty and diversity of the Welsh landscape. He has been photographing the natural and cultural heritage of Wales for over 30 years, and his work has been exhibited and published internationally. Glyn Davies uses a variety of techniques and equipment to create stunning images that reflect his passion and respect for the land and its people.

To find out about the great photograher please visit his website


Published by

Visit Caernarfon.

Comments


Commenting has been turned off.
bottom of page