Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

This is the first major study of the fine arts in Wales during the modern period; a pioneering expedition into territory that has been neglected by the wider world of scholarship. It is, therefore, presented as a broad survey, rather than a detailed history; bringing together hitherto unrelated individuals and events, to give a coherent account of the evolution of modern art in Wales. Using a wealth of illustrations, the author argues that there is no case for an autonomous `School of Wales'. His theme is that, from a stagnant back-water, Welsh art has developed into a vigorous tributary to the mainstream of Western art. This luxuriously produced volume tells the story of those outstanding artists working in Wales and outside Wales who, by their collective efforts, have made modern Welsh art a subject in its own right.

Reviews provided by Syndetics

CHOICE Review

As the title indicates, this book is not about the art of Wales but rather the visual arts in Wales. Consequently, it deals with artists who were born and flourished in Wales, some who left seeking fame in London, and outsiders who visited or settled in Wales and drew inspiration from particular aspects of its environment. In addition, it treats patrons, collectors, and institutions responsible for fostering artistic development in the principality. Rowan is candid from the outset about the variable quality and importance of the material he presents, but he correctly justifies the enterprise by pointing to the dearth of literature on the subject. That alone is enough to recommend this survey of the period since 1850. Rowan examined the earlier period in Art in Wales 2000 B.C.-A.D. 1850, ed. by Rowan (1978). Includes some good color photographs but there are far too many drab or fuzzy illustrations. For undergraduates, graduate students and general readers.-W.S. Rodner, Pennsylvania State University, Altoona Campus