Working with heavier paints led to a consideration of depth, literally. The sculptures or, perhaps more accurately, bas-reliefs, were first modelled in clay then cast in plaster and painted. More recent scenes (at the top) are mixed media. They portray scenes in South Wales. Many have lights fitted, as you can see.
It is difficult to phtograph these pieces in a way which shows their three dimensions. I'm open to suggestions, or, if you would like to see them better, please contact me, and I'll send your more shots or a short film. This page contains low-resolution photos; to see a high-res version, click on the image (except the ships). Card illustrating these are available.

If you are interested, please contact me at chris@thorkelson.co.uk .

SAVE THE CARDIFF COAL EXCHANGE!

The Coal Exchange, a very beautiful old building and a relic of Cardiff's past importance as the biggest coal exporting port in the world, is under threat of demolition. The building is at the centre and focus of Mount Stuart Square, and once served as a sort of stock exchange for the sale and export of South Wales coal. An online petition is here.

Below are two bas reliefs based on the facades of former banks facing the Coal Exchange. The above link shows the beauty of the old building, which is in a sad state of disrepair (the excuse for the proposed destruction), but by no means hopeless. If it is knocked down it cannot ever be replaced; it is a gem. Please consider signing the petition. The bas reliefs below are made from castings, and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to organisations trying save the building. Contact me as above.
"Sailing Ship" (left) and "Steamship" are painted, oval plaster castings measuring approximately 7-1/2" tall by 6" wide by 3/8-1/2" thick, so they can conveniently hang on a wall. They are interpretations of old architectural decorations on a former mercantile bank facing the Coal Exchangein Mount Stuart Square. I make the castings to ordered so it requires some time. Of the £50 cost of the pair, (or £30 each), a portion will be used to support efforts to save the Coal Exchange.
Of all the many millions spent on redeveloping the former port and dockland, including damming the harbour itself, virtually nothing has gone into making use of or preserving these treasures. A crying shame!
Pont-y-Gwaith, north of Abrcynon in the Taff Vale. The name means "Work Bridge" or perhaps refers to it providing access a 'Bridge to Works". The real thing is part of the Taff Trail, a long bike and footpath, and was originally built in the early 1800s, rebuilt in recent years. Approximately 40 x 32.5 cm (16" x 13") Mixed media. £200. Worth seeing, took ages.
Walterston, Vale of Glamorgan, 42 x 32 x 7.5 cm deep (16-1/2" x 12-1/2" x 3").
SOLD
Sychnant Pass, North Wales, 40 x 29.3 x 17.5 cm deep (14" x 11" x 7").
lit, £90.
Brecon & Monmouthshire Canal, 36 x 28 x 17.5 cm deep
(14" x 11" x 7"). Not for sale.
St. Michael's College at Night,
25.0 x 35.5 x 6.2 cm deep
(9-3/4” x 13-3/4” x 2-1/2”), lit
SOLD
South Wales valley town, 24 x 36 x 16 cm deep
(10" x 14" x 6-1/4" deep). Unframed, £50.
Our House, 12.7 x 23 cm (5" x 9").
Not for Sale.
Cardiff Terrace, 35.5 x 26 cm (14 x 10-1/4), lights in the windows, £150
Large house, 17.75 x 28 cm (7" x 11").
Commission - SOLD (see House portraits for a painting commission of the same house.)
Cardiff door II, showing light, 11.0 x 20.3 cm (4.5" x 8"),
£50 (other versions available at a similar or lower price)

Asking prices are negotiable. For information on purchasing these or other works of art, please e-mail me at:

chris@thorkelson.co.uk