Artist Captures Every Resident in Britain’s Smallest City: An Inspiring Tribute
Grahame Hurd-Wood, a talented artist, has embarked on a unique and touching mission to paint every single resident of St Davids in Pembrokeshire, the UK’s smallest city. Over the past 40 years, Grahame has devoted his life to capturing the essence of the community through his portraits, with a goal of completing 1,800 paintings. His dedication and heartfelt commitment to showcasing the diverse individuals who make up St Davids have garnered attention and praise from locals and visitors alike.
Originally hailing from Portsmouth and having spent his teenage years in Derry, Northern Ireland, Grahame found his artistic calling in St Davids after studying at London’s prestigious Royal Academy of Art. His deep connection to the city, with its close-knit community and stunning landscapes, inspired him to settle there in 1983. Grahame’s passion for painting seascapes and landscapes perfectly aligns with the picturesque setting of St Davids, making it an ideal backdrop for his ambitious project.
The concept of painting every resident in St Davids took on new significance following a personal tragedy. After his partner Debbie’s passing from cancer in 2013, Grahame made a promise to her to continue with the portraits. This promise became the driving force behind the “City of Portraits” project, which has now been brought to life in an exhibition at the Pierhead Futures Gallery in Cardiff Bay. Through his art, Grahame found solace and purpose, using it as a means to heal and connect with others.
From local business owners to community leaders and ordinary residents, Grahame has painted a diverse array of individuals, each contributing their unique story to his project. Situated in his studio overlooking the garden, Grahame captures the essence of his subjects as they bask in the natural light streaming through the window. The process of painting each portrait has been a deeply emotional and enriching experience for Grahame, allowing him to forge meaningful connections with his fellow St Davids residents.
The exhibition at the Pierhead Futures Gallery features nearly 1,000 portraits, with Grahame steadfast in his goal to paint every single person in the city. His commitment to showcasing the diverse stories and personalities of St Davids residents is evident in each striking portrait. Beyond just capturing a likeness, Grahame seeks to delve into the essence of each individual, celebrating their unique contributions to the fabric of the community.
As St Davids continues to evolve and change, Grahame sees his project as a continuous journey. With new faces and stories emerging, he remains dedicated to preserving the spirit of the city through his art. For Grahame, this project is not about financial gain but rather a heartfelt tribute to the community that has embraced him and enriched his life. Each portrait represents a testament to the resilience, diversity, and warmth of St Davids, encapsulating the essence of Britain’s smallest city in a powerful and moving way.
The City of Portraits exhibition offers a poignant reflection of the people and stories that define St Davids, inviting viewers to connect with the rich tapestry of humanity that flourishes within this small but vibrant city. Grahame’s unwavering commitment to his art and to his community serves as an inspiring example of how creativity can bring people together, heal wounds, and celebrate the beauty of human connection.