Swansea University Art Collection

Carnhedryn by John Knapp Fisher

John Knapp Fisher started in theatre design, creating backdrops and canvases before becoming a full-time painter.

In 1965, he moved to Pembrokeshire, his muse, where he lived until his death. When we think of iconic Pembrokeshire artists, John Knapp Fisher is probably the first name on our lips, largely helped by the fact that his Croesgoch studio was also his gallery, attracting thousands of visitors and loyal customers year on year.

Knapp Fisher had a distinctive style using a limited palette, tones of black and white in stark contrast with only an occasional temptation of colour to bring his subject to life.

The artist was very much involved in the entire process; from wandering the landscape, exploring obscure corners, sketching en plein air, developing his sketches at his studio, to even making the frames and looking after the business-side at the gallery. This was Knapp Fisher’s world to which he was totally immersed.