Gwilym John Blockley

Born in 1921, Gwilym John Blockley received no formal arts training. He did train as an engineering draughtsman and subsequently became head of the Atomic Energy Authority’s exhibition design and construction department. Over the years he exhibited his artworks throughout the UK, including the Royal Academy, and received many awards. He loved the ruggedness of the Cumbrian and Welsh mountains, the Pennines and the singular mood of the Pembrokeshire landscape. All the time he experimented with new techniques, developing his own style which continued to evolve. His artworks were experimental and progressive, with no boundaries; somewhere between abstract and representational, stark but richly patterned paintings, examples of which are held in the Royal West of England Academy (RWA) permanent collection. Blockley was a leading member of the Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolours (RI), The New English Art Club, RWA and past President of the Pastel Society. His energetic leadership, outgoing personality and dry wit made him popular among artists and students alike. He was an inspiring teacher and author to a number of books on painting techniques. After retiring to paint full-time, he moved to the Cotswolds where his wife, Margaret, managed their successful gallery in Stow-on-the-Wold. There he shared a studio with the renowned artist Moira Huntly (RI). He is survived by his Daughter, Ann Blockley, who is also a highly talented and successful artist.