Artist Matthew Wood Gifts Dedicated Painting to Nantclwyd y Dre

Following on from his recent exhibition, artist Matthew Wood has generously gifted a painting to the historic house to mark the conclusion of his 2025 artist residency.

The artwork, a smaller version of Wood’s popular oil lamp painting, depicts the evocative 1940s hallway at Nantclwyd y Dre. Featuring soft light falling across the antique oil lamp through the intricate stained glass in the background, the composition captures a beautiful moment in the house’s layered history.

The painting has become the centrepiece of Wood’s recent exhibition of over 20 site-specific works created during his time in residence.

Site Manager Kate Thomson accepted the painting on behalf of the popular heritage attraction, saying:

“We are absolutely thrilled to receive this gift from Matthew. His painting captures the spirit of the house so beautifully; the light, the colours, and the carefully captured details of the stained-glass window and hallway which is the view that visitors first encounter when they visit. It will be a lasting memento of his time here that future visitors can enjoy for years to come.”

Councillor Emrys Wynne, Lead Member for Welsh Language, Culture and Heritage said:

“It’s wonderful to receive this painting following Matthew’s residence at Nantclwyd y Dre. The workshops and exhibition held were a great success and it’s been fantastic to host events such as these at one of our heritage sites”.

Wood’s residency included a successful solo exhibition (April–June 2025), which showcased this new collection inspired by the house’s architecture and atmosphere, as well as a series of public and student workshops. The gifted painting will now become part of the permanent collection at Nantclwyd y Dre.