Stephen Daniels was born in 1961 in Mid Glamorgan, South Wales. After leaving school in 1979 with qualifications in Art, Sculpture, and Ceramics he spent three years at the College of Art in Cardiff. Here he studied two-dimensional design, specialising in illustration, graduating with distinction in 1982. He worked in London for the next eight years as a freelance illustrator. During this time he developed a number of styles in watercolour, gouache, ink, and acrylics, producing work for many design agencies and publishing houses. Since returning to Wales in 1990, he has illustrated more than sixty books, both fiction and nonfiction. These include a text of Welsh folklore and legends, such as a story from the “Mabinogion,” as well as the stories of “Gelert” and “Guto Nyth Bran,” which were illustrated in graphic novel form.

In addition to painting Welsh scenery and architecture, Daniels also enjoys crafting “simulacra”--images of one object that also look like something else. Daniels also became intrigued by the flowing forms and intricate patterns of ancient Celtic designs and their ability, through the use of static controlled lines, to express movement. These geometric interlacings, that imitate three dimensions, have a sensual quality that is both subtle and explicit. The work on display at Blue Ruin Gallery exemplifies Daniels’ skill at both simulacra and emphasizing the sensual nature of Celtic knot design. These intriguing and exceptionally well-crafted pieces are inspiring puzzles that encourage a new way of seeing as you try to guess what image is hidden in the knot.