Min y Don Llandudno – Artist Spotlight Series by Teresa & Rheinallt Hughes
Meeting William Selwyn’s Art
At Min y Don Llandudno — our cosy retreat in North Wales — the story of Welsh rural life unfolds not in a gallery but in the quiet corners of our home and through the experiences we share as a family.
Our journey with William Selwyn’s art began unexpectedly during a family visit to Rheinallt’s parents’ home. There, we encountered a striking limited edition print of a sheepdog. The painting’s presence and life-like energy spoke to us instantly. Over time, we began carefully collecting Selwyn’s works – each piece deepening our connection to North Wales and the rhythm of rural life.
Like many things in life, it started quietly, but grew into something meaningful. Guests often tell us how these pieces make them pause, reflect, and feel connected to the land and stories of Gwynedd.
Collecting Selwyn: From Prints to Originals
That first limited edition print sparked a journey of discovery for us. Over the past year or so, we have gradually built a small but cherished collection of Selwyn’s watercolours. Each work we acquire carries a story of the land, the people, and the profound sense of place that defines Gwynedd.
Among these works is the original Tilling for Potatoes, now displayed at Min y Don Llandudno, showing the steady rhythm of manual labour – bent backs, weathered clothes, soil, and hands working the land. We also have a watercolour of the Llanberis Pass, proudly displayed in our hallway for everyone to view. Each piece invites guests to connect with North Wales in a personal and meaningful way.
Together, the sheepdog, the farmers, and the sweeping Welsh landscape speak of loyalty, labour, and belonging – each in their own quiet way. Art is always personal – and that’s exactly why we love sharing it here at Min y Don Llandudno.
About William Selwyn
Born in Caernarfon in 1933, William Selwyn is regarded as one of the most important contemporary Welsh painters, particularly known for capturing the landscapes and communities of Gwynedd.
After completing National Service with the Royal Artillery, Selwyn trained at Bangor Normal College and spent decades teaching art locally, before becoming a full-time painter in 1990.
His work is dynamic, atmospheric, and textured – often painted outdoors, in weather that certainly isn’t shy in North Wales.
Selwyn has received numerous awards, including Welsh Artist of the Year (2001). His paintings feature in private and public collections throughout Wales and internationally.
A Sense of Place (and Welsh Hiraeth)
Selwyn’s paintings express that beautiful Welsh idea – hiraeth – a longing for home and belonging.
He paints not only what he sees, but what he knows and feels:
- the dignity of everyday labour
- the loyalty of working animals
- the connection between land and people
- the quiet truth of rural Wales
At Min y Don Llandudno, we believe art should inspire reflection, not just decoration. Selwyn’s work invites guests to experience the landscape emotionally, not just visually. Guests often say that standing near these pieces makes them feel connected to North Wales in a way that goes beyond sightseeing – it’s almost like stepping into a story.
Visit Min y Don Llandudno and Experience Selwyn’s Wales
We’re proud to share these works as part of our Sense of Place Through Welsh Eyes series here at Min y Don Llandudno. Guests are welcome to view the limited edition sheepdog print that began our journey, and the Tilling for Potatoes and Llanberis Pass watercolours which now hang proudly.
Art, after all, is personal. But sometimes the most personal things are exactly what we end up sharing. And that’s what makes a visit to Min y Don Llandudno so special.
External References / Useful Sources
- Visit Wales – North Wales culture & art
- Oriel Ffin y Parc – gallery hosting Welsh artists
- Oriel Ger y Fenai – gallery hosting Welsh artists
Seaside Stories: Life at Min y Don, Llandudno and Beyond 
Leave a comment