The ‘Vanished Sea Village?’ talk will be held through the medium of English. But questions may be asked in Welsh and English
As part of the exhibition Hirael ‘Pobol Iawn’ (Portraits and Voices of Hirael), visitors are invited to a special event featuring a discussion with artist Pete Jones and photographer Robert Eames. Vanished Sea Village will offer a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the stories and themes behind the exhibition and to reflect on the rich visual history of the Hirael area.
Jones and Eames will explore the work of contemporary photographer Iolo Penry, whose recent series captures the vibrant community and landscapes of Hirael. Penry’s intimate portraits and documentary-style images offer a nuanced portrayal of the area, and the discussion will provide insight into his creative process and the significance of the people and places featured in his photographs.
The conversation will also spotlight key images from the Gwynedd Archive, drawing on historical photographs to contextualize Hirael’s evolving identity over time. These images serve as a powerful record of the community’s history, and Jones and Eames will discuss how they inform and enrich the current exhibition.
A central focus of the event will be the legacy of the late Garry Stuart, whose 1976 exhibition Hirael remains a landmark in the area’s artistic history. Jones and Eames will reflect on how Stuart’s work captured the essence of Hirael in the mid-20th century and how his exploration of community and place continues to influence contemporary artists, including Penry.
This event offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from those involved in preserving and interpreting Hirael’s visual history, providing a deeper understanding of the area’s enduring cultural significance. Join us for an evening of reflection, conversation, and connection to the past and present of Hirael.
Learn more about our current Hirael Exhibition here
Learn more about Pete Jones previous exhibition at Storiel here
Sgerbwd- Pete Jones
