Dillwyn Smith

Be a Lantern in the Dark

21st November 2021 - 16th January 2021

Be a Lantern in the Dark

“Ken and I first discussed a project for the m2 Gallery in 2014/15 following my exhibition ‘Dirty Linen’ curated by Gill Hedley at Patrick Heide’s Gallery in Lisson Grove. The m2 is a unique space, conceived in its DNA to offer 24hr access to art and culture on the street.  I found this such an exciting and positive concept for the neighbourhood and vibrant local society, while at the same time rebuffing Thatcher’s statement, "There is no such thing as society”.

The space presented an opportunity to show an ambitious new work, which had been brewing for some time; in a way it was a gift.  

We began to meet and plan, an idea formed, out of this working-relationship grew friendship and respect.  Covid/lockdown/lockdown/Covid happened scuppering our plans several times but gave time to refine the idea. 

My relationship with Buddhism began 30 years ago this year, Nichiren [Japanese Buddhist priest 1222-82] wrote many letters to encourage his supporters, in three of these written between 1268-77 he mentions ‘a lantern in the dark’. Covid and Lockdowns seemed an appropriate moment to create something that touched upon this phrase.  By adding “Be” to the beginning, it turned the phrase into an action – Be a lantern in the Dark – something I hoped would/could counter directly the dilemma we find ourselves in; making an artwork that could offer a glimmer of hope to people walking by in the neighbourhood, with a light touch.”

Gelato Roma

The m2 Gallery offered Dillwyn a second commission to clad or ‘dress’ the 4 x m2 Gallery Pavilion.  This takes inspiration from the whimsical seaside stylings of Quay House and his love of Italian ice cream. 

“In 2019 I had a Painting Fellowship at the British School in Rome, I fell in love with the early spring light raking across the buildings, the moonlight and so many other things, but for this project I thought it would be perfect and fun to use the four colours of my favourite ice creams, from my favourite Roman ice cream parlour (Gelateria) – Lemon, Black Cherry, Pistachio & Blood Orange (Llimone, Amarena, Pistacchio & Sangunella). 

To make these colours I went to my favourite ‘colour-woman’ Francesa Wezel at Francesca Paints (we have previously collaborated on several projects) and had much fun making these colours together.”

Dillwyn Smith was an Abbey Fellow in Painting at The British School at Rome in 2019 and is represented by Patrick Heide Gallery.

Photographs by Anthony Coleman