PEN AND INK DRAWING OF WELSH NATIONAL TRUST PROPERTY: DYFFRYN GARDENS
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“Katherine’s superb, high quality drawing of Dyffryn House perfectly captures the very essence of Dyffryn and its Grade II listed mansion house. It brings to life a family home that was once at the heart of a thriving estate and community. We are proud to showcase Katherine’s stunning collection in our gift shop.”
Retail Team, Dyffryn Gardens, National Trust |
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In 2020, I was commissioned by the National Trust to create pen and ink drawings of Dyffryn Gardens in the Vale of Glamorgan. The retail team asked me to draw their beautiful Welsh house and gardens so they had art prints to sell in their gift shop.
Dating back to the 16th century, the house at Dyffryn began life as an extravagant family home. Sold in 1891, it was transformed by wealthy coal merchant, John Cory, who had a passion for horticulture and developed the majestic grounds. Over the next century, the house was used as a police academy, dog training facility and an educational conference centre, before being acquired by the National Trust in 2013. Now, after years of restoration and conservation, it’s enjoyed by children and adults alike, for family days out and special occasions. |
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Bringing my pen and ink art to life…
Before starting my drawings, I worked closely with the retail team to agree on the scope of work. Together, we explored different parts of the building and considered which elements would suit my architectural ink drawing style. This involved an initial meeting where we discussed the brief, what my clients wanted to capture – and the size of drawings they were looking for. Following this initial chat, I went away and put together a proposed layout, using photographs I'd taken at the site. As soon as the team had signed off the scope of work and my photograph collage, the drawing began. I started by drawing a pencil outline and then went over everything in my traditional architect's pens. |
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The team at Dyffryn Gardens were delighted with the end result and it now takes pride of place in their gift shop. They said my drawing "perfectly captures the very essence of Dyffryn".
Whenever I restock the Dyffryn Gardens shop with more of the commissioned prints, or my landscape and wildlife drawings, it’s a real treat. I always use it as an excuse to enjoy the beautiful grounds with my rescue greyhound. |
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