PEMBROKESHIRE artist Raul Speek has turned his talents to a new subject, painting a portrait of the Bishop of St Davids in the historic surroundings of St Davids Cathedral.

The renowned Cuban-born artist, who has called Pembrokeshire home for more than 30 years, is creating a portrait of the Rt Revd Dorrien Davies, the 130th Bishop of St Davids.

Wearing his ceremonial robes and mitre, and holding his crozier, Bishop Dorrien posed for the artist inside the Cathedral as Raul began capturing his likeness on a large canvas.

The painting, which is still taking shape, features a striking blue and gold background, with the Bishop's distinctive episcopal vestments forming the centrepiece of the composition.

Raul, who runs his gallery in the picturesque coastal village of Solva, is well known for his distinctive artistic style, expressive use of colour and bold compositions.

Originally from Cuba, he moved to Britain in 1991 before settling in Pembrokeshire in 1995. Together with his wife, photographer Heather Bennett, he established the Raul Speek Gallery in Solva, which has become a popular destination for art lovers and visitors to the county.

Bishop Dorrien, who was consecrated in January 2024, is himself a keen painter, with painting listed among his personal hobbies.

Bishop Dorrien said: "As someone who enjoys painting myself, it has been a real pleasure to watch Raul at work and see his creativity and talent first-hand. We are fortunate to have such wonderful artists here in the diocese, and I'm looking forward to seeing how the finished portrait turns out."

The portrait brings together two individuals who share an appreciation of art and creativity, with the magnificent medieval Cathedral providing a fitting backdrop for the work.

The project also highlights the wealth of artistic talent found across Pembrokeshire and the continuing relationship between the arts, faith and the communities of West Wales.