Gareth Griffiths b. 1979

Griffiths originates from North Wales; he studied sculpture at Bretton Hall College (University of Leeds) graduating in 2002, and then completed a Masters in Design at Leeds Metropolitan in 2004.

Griffiths’ sculptures are colourful, vivacious and eye-catching. They are influenced by ‘Googie’ – a form of West Coast American architecture which derives from a John Lautner designed coffee shop in West Hollywood. This style of architecture was born after the Second World War, becoming notable during the 50s and 60s. It appeared originally in commercial buildings and was used primarily for restaurants, coffee shops, motels, gas stations and bowling alleys. Post-war architects were tapping into the energy of the time to innovate bold, modern and vibrant designs that made their buildings stand out from their surroundings. With the use of new, cutting-edge technologies they could design buildings that were akin to works of art rather than purely functional buildings. The distinct style incorporates flowing lines, odd abstract cut-outs, upswept rooves, boomerang shapes, curvaceous and geometric shapes, and prominent use of glass, steel and neon. Griffiths assimilates the vigorous energy and dynamism of ‘Googie’ into his sculpture.

Griffiths was elected a member of the Royal Society of Sculptors in 2015. He has exhibited across the world in galleries in London, Liverpool (Tate Gallery), Beirut, Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Europe and the USA and his work can be seen in private collections in Europe, the USA and Australia. Griffiths has recently completed large private and corporate commissions including work for The Canary Wharf Group London, The Londoner Hotel/Casino in Macau and has recently had work purchased to be included in the Government art collection.