Arthur Welsby, ex-carpenter and resident of Gwaelod y Garth

As I was researching one of my recent commissions in Georgetown, Gwaelod-Y-Garth I met a lovely chap who introduced himself to me as Arthur Welsby. We started chatting and when I told him I was an artist he insisted on showing me his workshop. He used to be a carpenter and his place is a wonderful collection of old machines, bits and pieces, wooden craft pieces and loads of memories.  It turns out Arthur knows some of my family, in particular, my Uncle Cyril who Arthur remembers at the ‘Ton dance’. ‘A little man but hard as nails’ said Arthur.

This is one of the things that makes my job as an artist so special. Having the time to engage with local characters, learning about their lives and the local history. ‘I used to live up the mountain’ he said. ‘Near the old Colliers Arms’. I feel like I made a new friend today. ‘Come up anytime for a cup of tea’ said Arthur. ‘I will…I definitely will. Thank you Arthur.