Double take on county (From Western Telegraph)

Double take on county

Double Vision art and photography exhibition Haverfordwest Library March 20th to April 10th

DESPITE living within a stone's throw of one another, Graham Brace and David Wilson have entirely different views.

Both Llangwm artists are inspired by the landscapes of Pembrokeshire and west Wales.

But while David looks at life through a lens, Graham sees the world over the top of a sketch book.

Their two distinct perspectives on the local landscape will be on display in the aptly named Double Vision exhibition at Haverfordwest Library from March 20th to April 10th.

Graham Brace grew up in Milford Haven and was drawn back to Pembrokeshire in the mid 1970s.

He is now a well-known local artist, focusing on landscape and seascape painting and a range of limited edition prints.

His background in graphic design shows in his attention to detail. "I will draw anything that interests me," he said.

Pembrokeshire's coast and countryside remain his major inspiration - from dramatic skies to drystone walls.

"I am fascinated by the small corners which might go unnoticed by the majority of passers-by.

"Although coloured pencil predominates in my work, I frequently use a mixture of other media including chalk pastel, watercolour, ink and gouache."

His new collection is being exhibited alongside that of fine art and commercial photographer David Wilson.

David Wilson is best known for his black and white Pembrokeshire landscapes, but says this new collection adds something a little different.

"I've included a bit more colour in this exhibition and also some more detailed shots, which just happened to catch my eye on my travels," he said.

Originally from Haverfordwest, David has come a long way since the days when he rode around the county on his motorbike armed with a 35mm Canon and an Ordnance Survey map - exploring the countryside and learning the skills behind his current work.

He said: "As a landscape photographer, I see Pembrokeshire's subtlety as its strength.

"We don't have epic, snow-capped peaks like Snowdonia or the Highlands.

"What we do have is infinitely more understated - difficult to define or pigeonhole." The pair often find themselves capturing the same landscape through their particular media, but the results are always different.

David said: "I think our styles of work definitely complement one another and will make for an interesting exhibition."

More information on Graham Brace and David Wilson is available through their websites at www.graham brace.co.uk and www.davidwilsonphotography.co.uk