Plas Newydd on Anglesey is home to what is undoubtedly Rex Whistler’s greatest mural. Those of you who are yet to experience those wet feet following you as you walk across the room or the pampered dog refusing his stew really must visit, it has to be seen to be believed!

But there is much more to the artwork of Rex Whistler than this single, albeit stunning, mural; and the last weekend of June sees three days of fascinating Rex Whistler themed events come to Plas Newydd celebrating, and introducing, the man, his work and his life.

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What a life it was too. Unrequited love, a talent for art described by his professor at Slade School of Art as ‘the best pupil we have had since Augustus John’, and a tragic and untimely death from a mortar bomb on his first day of action in Normandy. Despite his early death at the age of 39 Rex Whistler left an impressive array of artwork ranging from large scale paintings to advertising and from illustrations to designs for theatre. A large number of his works are on display at Plas Newydd and over the weekend of 27, 28 and 29 June three presentations will take place highlighting different aspects of his work and life.

© National Trust

• On 27 June, Heather Birchall, Curator of Historic Fine Art, at the Whitworth Art Gallery, University of Manchester, will introduce us to some of Whistler’s most important large scale paintings and masterpieces of illusion.
• Then on Saturday 28 June, Art Historian Nikki Frater will guide us through Whistler’s triumphant costume and set designs for theatre, many of which, remarkably, were undertaken while he was a tank commander in the Welsh Guards.
• Finally on Sunday 28 we get an insight into the man and his life as Peter Simpson takes us on a journey around Britain to get a real insight into the life and works of Rex Whistler from his early depictions of bible stories read to him by his mother to the vast and triumphant trompe l’oeil, or 'deceive the eye' painting that now resides in Plas Newydd.

Had he survived, Rex Whistler would undoubtedly have been one of the greatest artists throughout the 20th century; these three events will introduce both the man and his work in a way that will captivate newcomers and fans alike. If you would like further information on prices and availability for these events please contact Plas Newydd on 01248 714795