John Gwen was a Welsh artist and illustrator known for his depictions of the Welsh countryside and its people. He studied at the Cardiff School of Art and later at the Royal College of Art in London. Gwen's work is characterized by its bold, simplified forms and use of bright, flat colours, which give his paintings a sense of vitality and energy. He often painted scenes of rural life, such as landscapes, animals, and people at work, and he was particularly interested in capturing the unique character and spirit of the Welsh countryside. In addition to painting, Gwen worked as an illustrator, producing drawings and designs for books, magazines, and advertisements. Despite his relatively short career, Gwen is regarded as one of Wales' most important artists of the early 20th century.