In the footsteps of Augustus John – some miraculous promised land

2014 marks the centenary of the death of James Dickson Innes, who along with Augustus John and Derwent Lees produced some of the most dramatic and expressionistic landscape painting of the 20th century. Between 1910 - 1913 these three artists rented a cottage at Nant Ddu, near Llyn Tryweryn to paint landscapes around Arenig and the surrounding moorland, a landscape Augustus John described as 'some miraculous promised land'.

James Dickson Innes - Evening, Sun Setting behind Arenig Fach.
The Tabernacle Collection of MOMA WALES

The walk and talk event that the Snowdonia Society has arranged on 22nd February will visit some of the places that inspired these artists. If the weather is clear and bright there will be a choice of two walks on offer, both of which will begin and end at Nant Ddu. The more challenging walk, which will only take place if the weather is reasonably clear, will follow a route up Arenig via Amnodd Bwll returning via Llyn Arenig and the old railway trackbed. This walk will take approximately 5 hours, involve some steep sections and require a high level of fitness.

The other walk will be much easier and be on fairly level terrain. It will also start at Nant Ddu and visit Llyn Tryweryn and Blaen Cwm Prysor before returning along the abandoned railway trackbed. This walk will take approximately 2½ hours. Both walks will provide opportunities to view copies of work produced by these artists and share views about the landscape that inspired them.

The walks are open to all with a suggested donation of £5 or, for members of the Society, a donation of £3. To make a booking please contact info@snowdonia-society.org.uk

The walk is being organised and led by Gareth Roberts. Trained as an art historian, geographer and planner, Gareth has worked with the Snowdonia National Park Authority and the Countryside Council for Wales. He is a Director of the Landscape Research Group Ltd. and supports the work of charitable organisations involved in the conservation and enhancement of cultural landscapes internationally.