A NEW studio gallery of art and books dedicated to the wild is opening this Saturday, May 25, in Rhayader.

Located in the shadows of the famous dams and reservoirs of the Elan Valley and re-branded locally last year as the ‘Outdoors Capital of Wales’, River Wood is ideally situated in Rhayader.

It is the creation of artist and writer, James Roberts, who produces artwork of wild animals, including kites, curlews and hares.

“My work is mission led, to connect people more closely to nature and wild places,” said James, who lives in Hay-on-Wye.

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“Rhayader, surrounded by some of the wildest landscapes in Britain, is the perfect setting for this venue.”

Each of James’ images is made using drops of water and black ink, sprinkled with a pinch of salt. He then manipulates the artwork while it is wet using pens, brushes, sticks and blotting paper, to create texture and fluidity, allowing wild forms to conjure themselves.

“It took me years to develop this simplest possible technique to express wildness,” added James.

County Times: River Wood is located in the heart of Rhayader, near the town's iconic crossroads. River Wood is located in the heart of Rhayader, near the town's iconic crossroads. (Image: Julia Smurthwaite)

County Times: Each of James’ images is made using drops of water and black ink, sprinkled with a pinch of salt. Each of James’ images is made using drops of water and black ink, sprinkled with a pinch of salt. (Image: Julia Smurthwaite)

Available to purchase at River Wood are James’ original paintings, as well as limited edition prints, cards and decorative items.

The gallery also offers a wide range of inspirational nature books for all ages, which includes James’ book ‘Two Lights’ (£16.99), recently longlisted for the Royal Society of Literature Ondaatje prize.

For people wanting to work with images and words for the wild, James will also be running creative workshops throughout the year, which will take place both at the gallery and in the local woodland and river setting.

River Wood is situated at The Old Swan, West Street, Rhayader, (the yellow building near the crossroads – look for the swan).

It will be open Thursday to Saturday 11am-4pm; and Sundays and bank holiday Mondays 11am-3pm. Visit www.nightriverwood.com for opening hours and more details about James’ work.