‘Poignant’ painting commemorating end of First World War on display in Wrexham

A moving painting has gone on display in Wrexham to mark 100 years since the end of the First World War.

The picture, which shows two grieving soldiers in a field of poppies, was painted by keen amateur artist Danielle Andrews and can be seen hanging in the office window of Wrexham MP Ian Lucas.

Danielle, 23, of Gwersyllt, contacted Mr Lucas after finishing the painting a few weeks ago, asking if there was any way the MP could use it in the build-up to Remembrance Sunday.

Mr Lucas said he found the picture both stunning and moving and arranged for an enlarged print of the original to be made. It can now be seen in the window of his constituency office at Vernon House on Rhosddu Road.

“I was taken aback when I saw Danielle’s painting. She is clearly very talented and has produced a very poignant piece of work,” said Mr Lucas.

“I knew it was something which should reach a wider audience, which is why I decided to display the picture in a prominent location at my Wrexham office.”

Mr Lucas added: “Remembrance Sunday takes on added significance this year, with 2018 marking the centenary of the end of the First World War. It is right that we remember the sacrifices made during this conflict, and others, and there are a range of events in Wrexham which will honour the fallen.

“Danielle’s painting is a very fitting and moving tribute to those who loves their lives and I’d like to thank her for sharing it with me.”

Danielle has been fighting mental health issues since 2009 and she turned to painting as an ‘escape’ to help her condition. Her mental health has improved greatly this year after she decided to paint more regularly.

Danielle was keen to thank Mr Lucas for the interest he has shown in her latest painting, which is titled ‘A Grieving Soldier’, and hopes the people of Wrexham find it both poignant and inspiring.

“If any of this can be taken as a positive message for people fighting mental health issues, then that would be fantastic,” said Danielle.