Artist Statement

Artist Statement

Hi! My name is Rhys Stapleton & I founded 'Rhysiz Pieces Arts & Crafts' in 2011. 'Rhysiz Pieces' originated from the concept 'Rhys's Pieces', which was created as a fundraising Tea party event¹ for a Charity, formally called 'Samantha Dickson Brain Tumour Trust', now a partner of 'The Brain Tumour Charity'. I became involved with this Charity due to my own experience with brain tumours, which were diagnosed in November 2006, October 2010, July 2011 & December 2019. The first whilst I was studying Art at the University of Glamorgan, in South Wales. In 2006, before my first diagnosis, I had lost the sight in my right eye, due to the un-discovered tumour. It had damaged my optic nerve beyond repair. I was in shock, especially as I was a painter and relied on my vision. This was a hurdle that I had to overcome, knowing that I had to adapt to a visual impairment, whilst still studying. Thankfully, after 4 months recovery from the first operation, I was able to slowly get back into my University Degree, although it took me 4 years instead of the traditional 3, obtaining a 2nd class honours (2:1)². For the fundraiser I changed the way I created my work & ideas as I had to adapt to my new normal, which evidently began my love of all things small. Creating 'Miniature Masterpieces' gave me a new direction for my artworks, as up until this point I was using found objects as my canvas³, but now I was concentrating more on using miniature canvas & easels.

During this time (2004-2014) I had also been a Set Designer & Painter⁴/Graphic Designer⁵ for an amateur Theatre company 'Hilltop', based in Pentyrch, Cardiff. So I had a wide range of artistic skills under my belt.

In 2013 I met the wonderful Alicia, who gave me everything I had dreamt for, we were/still are, soulmates, and after a whirlwind 18 months together, we got Married⁶ in July 2015. We have 3 beautiful Children⁶ now, Joseph, Ellena & William, who are our world.

As you can imagine it hasn't been easy to find time to start up this small business again, especially due to having a young family, my health & the Covid-19 lockdown. However, It now feels like the right time to start creating my 'Rhysiz Pieces' again. I have certainly enjoyed painting & creating again, especially after many years away from it.

Thank you for taking the time to read my Artist Statement. I hope you like what I am creating & would appreciate your feedback on my Facebook page @Rhysiz Pieces Arts & Crafts.

Rhys Stapleton