"I was extremely happy to accept the commission because I have a personal affection towards Aberaeron.

From an early age I spent those long summers watching the ships in the harbour, playing on the quay and being fascinated by the sea.

It was from the same harbour also that many of my family sailed the epic journey to Ohio in the 1840s. Therefore, in many ways, my associations with Aberaeron are deep-rooted.

Whilst working on this painting, I spent many afternoons and evenings sketching and making preparatory notes, and in the course of doing so I met many local people who are passionate about Aberaeron and also annual visitors who come for the sea air and to relax.

My aim was to compose a painting which would convey the spirit of Aberaeron, rather than including every detail.

Painting is often a process of simplifying until one is left with the meaningful essentials.

The challenge then of course is to create an interesting composition, and it is in this unity of form and pattern that I hope that the essence of Aberaeron emerges."

Article written by Aneurin Jones.