THE Fig Tree Penarth will be displaying work from artist David Wilde, thanks to a collaboration with fine art gallery, The Big Sky Gallery in Usk.

Wilde, who died in 1978, is known for his brightly coloured, surreal landscapes of his native Manchester and his beloved Wales.

During the 60s he illustrated a series of erotic books and short stories and his work was featured in Paris alongside that of Dali and Picasso. He spent his time in Europe and London before returning to his roots in Manchester.

In those days the nature of his erotic work meant that his work could not be shown publicly in the UK.

The works on show at The Fig Tree Penarth belong to his later working life, and include Rush Hour, Old Trafford; A study in smog, Victoria Station; and The day also rises, Snowdonia.

The Big Sky Gallery, and its online counterpart, Big Sky Fine Art (bigskyfineart.com) were founded by Barrie and Jane Jones, keen collectors of art.

Jane Jones said: “David Wilde is quite an intriguing figure. He chose the pseudonym Wilde as it reflected his lifestyle. When he died, after a short illness, there was some mystery about the manner of his death, apparently because of his determination to expose various secret societies. For that reason, his work was hidden away for safe keeping. Now, with those days behind us, we can show his wonderful, colourful, expressive pieces once again.”

David Wilde’s work can be seen, and purchased at The Fig Tree Penarth until the New Year.

The Big Sky Gallery can be found in Twyn Square, Usk, and by visiting thebigskygallery.com