An exhibition of works by the late Sir Kyffin Williams, showing some of his paintings inspired by his visit to Patagonia in 1968, has opened in Machynlleth.

These works, on loan from the National Library of Wales, mark 150 years since the first Welsh people went to Patagonia and celebrate the popular artist’s long support of the Museum of Modern Art, Wales (MOMA, WALES) at The Tabernacl, Machynlleth.

Open from Monday to Saturday, from 10am to 4pm, until May 9, the exhibition comprises 12 oil paintings which Sir Kyffin completed in his studio in 1969 from sketches and watercolours that he created on site during his visit Patagonia.

The exhibition is accompanied by a series of talks, further details of which are available from www.momawales.org.uk

One of the figureheads of contemporary Welsh art, Sir Kyffin was widely viewed as the first artist to truly connect with the Welsh people but his reputation extended far beyond his own country.

Throughout his career he was rewarded with a many honours. He was a senior Royal Academician, for many years president of the Royal Cambrian Academy, received an OBE for his services to the arts in 1982 and, in his 80th year, was given a knighthood.

Alongside the paintings are items and photographs generously loaned by Gareth Roberts which tell the story of the emigration of his great grandfather, Evan Evan Jones, in 1870 and then the return of his grandfather, William Charles Jones, to Llan Ffestiniog in 1902.

Lucinda Middleton, Richard and Ann Mayou Fund curator, said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to mark the Patagonia 150 anniversary and celebrate the work of Sir Kyffin Williams through this exhibition,”

“Sir Kyffin was a great supporter of MOMA WALES for many years and his legacy enabled the trust to proceed with developing the recently opened Tannery Gallery.”

MOMA, WALES was established in 1991 alongside The Tabernacle in Machynlleth.

Throughout the year, the galleries show contemporary art, featuring leading artists from Wales, works from the growing Tabernacle Collection and, in August, selected entries from the Tabernacle Art Competition. Many of the works of art are for sale.