Last Friday's speaker was Michael Frances, the head of public programmes at the National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth. He had come to show some of the collection of art at the National Library with special reference to Pembrokeshire. But first of all he told a little about the library. Built in 1911, and constantly evolving, it houses over four-million books, archives and records. In addition, it holds a large number of drawings, paintings, prints, portraits and photographs. Of these, Michael Francis had chosen early 18th century work of Pembrokeshire art to show members, beginning with several of the 50 caricatures by Thomas Rowlandson. He followed these with some of the peasant groups by John Dickson, who also painted examples of Pembrokeshire hospitality of the day. As most were itinerant artists at that time, members were shown a 1729 map of Wales with popular areas for travellers highlighted. Tenby was one of these. They were shown many topographical prints by artists such as the Buck brothers, John Buckler and Tenant. Probably the most famous was Richard Wilson and his pupil Thomas Jones. Three pieces by J. W. Turner were also shown. The aquatints of Paul Samby were shown, as well as the innovative views from the sea by Wm. Daniel. John Parker's beautifully painted rood screens were greatly admired, as were Charles Morris's etchings of Tenby in the year 1812. Many more fascinating examples of artists' work portraying Pembrokeshire were shown, covering almost two centuries, and Michael Francis gave just a taste of much later treasurers by Augustus and Gwen John, David Jones and Kyffin Williams. This had been a most interesting and informative evening enhanced by historical facts and humorous anecdotes. The chairman, John Bevan, thanked Michael Francis very warmly and hoped it had encouraged members to visit the National Library to see the collection in situ. This (Friday) evening, Susan Sands will talk about a different kind of art in India. Non-members are always welcome at 8 pm in Church House; admission £1 for members, £2 for non-members.
