You may know Ian H Watkins best as one fifth of one of Britain’s most successful pop groups, but over the past few years he has quietly built a second career as a visual artist, with collectors across the UK embracing his distinctive, uplifting style.

This summer, Ian returns with his latest exhibition, Summer of Love, a vibrant new collection inspired by connection, nostalgia, joy and the places that makes us feel at home.

For Ian, painting has become far more than a creative hobby. It offers a chance to slow down, step away from the demands of a busy career, and express emotions in a completely different way. While music tells stories through lyrics and melody, painting allows him to communicate through colour, texture and feeling.

“I’ve always been creative,” says Ian. “Whether it’s performing on stage or standing in front of a canvas, it’s about creating something that makes people feel something. Painting gives me a different kind of freedom.”

Drawing inspiration from coastlines, countryside views and treasured memories, Ian’s paintings invite viewers to discover their own stories within each piece. The Summer of Love collection celebrates warmth, optimism and togetherness. Created during a period of reflection and creativity, the exhibition captures moments of happiness and escapism, encouraging visitors to pause, breathe and reconnect with the things that matter most.

Summer of Love opens this summer at Clarendon Fine Art in Cardiff, offering visitors the chance to experience Ian’s latest work and discover the stories behind each canvas.