Anna Rowlands’s artistic journey began with studying ‘O’ and ‘A’ level art in St Davids Secondary School, followed by a foundation course at Carmarthenshire College of Art and Design. This October, she will exhibit her art work at the Joanna Field Gallery at the Torch Theatre in an exhibition called ‘Playful Exploration.’

Anna said: “After college I began working, and went on to have three children so there was little time left for art. As my children grew to be semi-independent, I found I had more time for myself and I knew it was time to revisit my creative side. In 2010 I joined St Davids and Solva Art Group and it was during this time that my passion for painting was renewed.”

Over the following 15 years, Anna developed a whimsical style, creating make-believe landscapes filled with fairies, dragons and woodland creatures using tiny brushes.

“Last year I felt ready for a change. I wanted to let go of control, loosen my hand and rediscover a sense of play. This led me towards semi-abstract work and a more experimental approach. ‘Playful Exploration’ reflects this shift. It is about trusting intuition, embracing uncertainty and finding joy in not knowing exactly what will happen next,” said Anna.

Her paintings have recently centred around flowers, vessels and fish, forms that feel familiar yet allowing space for play, interpretation and discovery. Her process begins without a plan as Anna explains:

“I start with carefree mark making using coloured pencils and wax crayons, letting intuition lead rather than intention. Over this, I apply layers of acrylic, working with large brushes and a variety of tools. I then scrape/sand back to reveal layers and marks underneath. At this stage I try not to think too much. The painting is allowed to unfold on its own terms. An image gradually begins to appear and once it does, I respond to it. Through negative painting, shading and a little bit of detail, the image is brought to life.

“The final stage is slow and contemplative. Much of the time is spent looking and feeling my way through the painting. It is here that I find the most satisfaction, in the quiet dialogue between myself and the work. I hope viewers simply enjoy looking, and that each return reveals something new.”

Follow Anna on Instagram: @annarowlandsart / Facebook: Anna Rowlands Art

Playful Exploration by Anna Rowlands can be seen at the Joanna Field Gallery, Torch Theatre during Box Office opening hours throughout October. Phone the Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre.co.uk for further information.