STORIEL has a diverse collection of art that captures some of the artists who have been inspired by the natural landscapes and cultural life of north-west Wales. Works include portraits of Welsh writers, ministers and notable individuals, as well as oils that form part of the bequest relating to the Jones family of Ynysgain, Cricieth. More recent acquisitions, such as the Arts Council of Wales bequest in 2002, represent Welsh artists working during the 1970s. The Museum collection started in 1884 as part of Bangor University’s teaching collections and also as a record of the social and cultural life of north-west Wales. The majority of the works in the collection have been gifted by local people, organisations (particularly the Arts Council of Wales and the Contemporary Arts Society for Wales), or have been acquired with the assistance of grant aid. New works are still acquired for the collection through such continued generosity. Paintings include a portrait of Eben Fardd (Ebenezer Thomas) by Evan Williams, ‘Carnarvon Castle’ by Frank Brangwyn and ‘Gestiana’ by Elfyn Lewis.
The Gwynedd Museum and Art Gallery, Bangor, is open to the public all year and has free admission. Opening hours are Tuesday to Friday 12.30pm–4.30pm and Saturday 10.30am–4.30pm. Not all of the works in the collection are on display. If there is a particular painting you would like to see, please contact the Museum. If the painting is in store, you will need to arrange an appointment.