The National Library of Wales is set to unveil an immersive experience celebrating the life and work of the renowned Welsh artist Kyffin Williams. This free visitor attraction, called the Profiad Kyffin Experience, marks 20 years since Williams gifted his extensive collection to the library, comprising over 1,200 works on paper, 200 oil paintings, and 300 original prints. The experience promises to offer a fresh perspective on Williams' iconic paintings, showcasing his landscapes and animal studies in a way that engages and educates new generations of art enthusiasts.
The library's commitment to preserving and sharing its collection is evident in this immersive experience. With the largest collection of Kyffin Williams in the world, the library has transformed special rooms to display his work. Visitors will be able to step into a curated collection of paintings, where the landscapes and animals come to life through innovative digital projections. This approach ensures that the texture and detail of Williams' brushstrokes are preserved, providing an authentic and captivating experience.
The relationship between the library and Kyffin Williams is a significant aspect of this initiative. The library's Chief Executive, Rhodri Llwyd Morgan, highlights the span of their connection, from the first purchase in 1949 to the remarkable bequest in 2006. This experience, held in the institution Williams entrusted with his legacy, is a testament to the library's commitment to delivering inclusive, collaborative, and digitally innovative experiences. It introduces Williams to a new generation in a way he could scarcely have imagined, making his work accessible to a wider audience.
Kyffin Williams, born in Llangefni, Anglesey, in 1918, is widely regarded as the defining Welsh artist of the 20th century. His landscapes have become synonymous with a national sense of place, while his portraits and animal studies, including his famous sheepdogs, offer a more playful and engaging approach to his work. The digitization process, led by Focal Studios, has been a privilege, allowing for the reconstruction of every brushstroke in extraordinary detail. This ensures that the texture and essence of Williams' paintings are preserved in the immersive experience.
The Profiad Kyffin Experience is made possible through principal funding from the Colwinston Charitable Trust, which is celebrating 30 years of supporting high-quality arts organizations. The trust's founder and chair, Mathew Prichard CBE, expresses delight in supporting this immersive experience in Wales, in the very institution Williams trusted with his life's work. The experience is also supported by the Welsh Government and the Friends of the National Library of Wales, ensuring its success and reach.
This immersive experience is not just a celebration of Kyffin Williams' artistic legacy but also a testament to the power of cultural preservation and accessibility. By bringing Williams' work to life through innovative technology, the library is making his art more engaging and accessible to a diverse audience. The experience is a reminder that art can be a powerful tool for education, inspiration, and the exploration of a nation's cultural identity.
