Acclaimed Welsh artist Kevin Sinnott dies aged 78

One of Wales' leading contemporary artists has died at the age of 78.

Kevin Sinnott who was born in Sarn, Bridgend county, to Irish parents, rose to fame for his painting Running Away with the Hairdresser.

The famous work of art, which portrays two figures running along a terraced street, is held by the National Museum in Cardiff.

Museum Wales said Sinnott was one of Wales' most acclaimed painters, with his work held in major collections in the UK and internationally.

Trained at the Royal College of Art in London, Sinnott enjoyed great success in the 1980s with exhibitions at prominent galleries in London and the United States.

His work was acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the British Council, the Royal College of Art in London, the British Museum, and Amgueddfa Cymru – Museum Wales.

He continued painting at his home in the Garw Valley until the end of his life.

His wife Susan died in 2017 and he is survived by his four children and 11 grandchildren.

Museum Wales said Running Away with the Hairdresser was one of the most popular works in their collection.

It said: "Much loved by visitors, the painting reflects the emotion, colour and distinctive character that made Sinnott's work so widely admired."

In a post shared on social media, Celf Gallery in Cardiff said Sinnott's "love and zest for life played out in his exuberant and colourful paintings".

"He leaves behind a remarkable artistic legacy that transformed everyday Welsh life into images of universal humanity," it said.

"His paintings will continue to speak of love, memory, place and the enduring spirit of Wales for generations to come".

Sinnott had an exhibition at the gallery set to take place in September, which will still go ahead as a tribute and celebration of his life and work.

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