0:00:00 > 0:00:00- 888
0:00:00 > 0:00:02- 888- - 888
0:00:07 > 0:00:09- 888
0:00:14 > 0:00:16- 888
0:00:23 > 0:00:27- The birth of Jesus Christ and - the events surrounding his birth...
0:00:27 > 0:00:31- ..have been the inspiration - for some splendid images.
0:00:48 > 0:00:53- These images have become popular - on the covers of Christmas cards.
0:00:59 > 0:01:03- The story of Jesus' birth - has inspired artists for centuries.
0:01:04 > 0:01:10- We will see some of the classic - paintings from the past...
0:01:10 > 0:01:14- ..to help us understand - the story of Christmas.
0:01:15 > 0:01:18- We will also see - four contemporary artists...
0:01:19 > 0:01:23- ..creating new artistic works - to celebrate Christmas.
0:01:34 > 0:01:38- Today, Christmas is a combination - of childhood excitement...
0:01:39 > 0:01:40- ..fantasy and mythology.
0:01:41 > 0:01:46- We will see how Christmas has - changed visually over the centuries.
0:01:48 > 0:01:53- And how pagan elements are part - of our contemporary celebrations.
0:01:59 > 0:02:02- In the bleakness of winter...
0:02:02 > 0:02:05- ..our forefathers celebrated - the dawning of a new year.
0:02:05 > 0:02:09- The word 'Nadolig' - has a direct connection...
0:02:09 > 0:02:13- ..with pagan festivals - from a time before Jesus' birth.
0:02:20 > 0:02:23- However, our story starts here.
0:02:24 > 0:02:30- It's night time. A flock of sheep - huddle on a hillside.
0:02:30 > 0:02:34- Imagine the shepherds - keeping warm around the fire.
0:02:34 > 0:02:38- They are about to play their part - in an important drama.
0:02:40 > 0:02:42- The adoration of the shepherds...
0:02:43 > 0:02:46- ..conveys a direct - and heart-warming message.
0:02:46 > 0:02:49- The visual image - of the poor shepherds...
0:02:49 > 0:02:53- ..tells us that the Lord - has joined us on earth...
0:02:53 > 0:02:56- ..in the form of a little baby.
0:02:56 > 0:03:02- This less familiar painting is kept - at St Mary's Church in Cardiff Bay.
0:03:03 > 0:03:05- In the National Gallery in London...
0:03:06 > 0:03:11- ..there's a very special painting of - Jesus' birth. This is my favourite.
0:03:15 > 0:03:19- The artist shows two things. - It's like a split screen.
0:03:19 > 0:03:24- In the background, the shepherds - are on the hillside with the sheep.
0:03:24 > 0:03:27- Gabriel announces to them - that Christ is born in a stable.
0:03:28 > 0:03:33- Jesus lies in the manger - in the stable.
0:03:33 > 0:03:36- He is lit up by a brilliant light.
0:03:36 > 0:03:39- The light from the shepherds' fire - is very low.
0:03:40 > 0:03:42- This is human light.
0:03:42 > 0:03:47- The artist concentrates - on the manger and Jesus.
0:03:47 > 0:03:51- Jesus is portrayed - as very precious...
0:03:51 > 0:03:54- ..irradiated with hope.
0:03:57 > 0:04:02- Our first artist - is from a farming background.
0:04:02 > 0:04:06- She has chosen these hill shepherds - with their flock...
0:04:07 > 0:04:10- ..as part of the inspiration - for her painting.
0:04:21 > 0:04:23- This is an amazing scene.
0:04:23 > 0:04:25- It's a very familiar scene for you.
0:04:25 > 0:04:29- What is the significance - of this scene and this location?
0:04:29 > 0:04:34- The sheep, the farmer and - the shepherd are very familiar...
0:04:34 > 0:04:36- ..because of my farming background.
0:04:37 > 0:04:40- In this location, you can imagine - the angel appearing...
0:04:40 > 0:04:45- ..to spread the good news about - the birth. The light is fantastic.
0:04:45 > 0:04:48- It's great coming back here - to sketch the sheep.
0:04:48 > 0:04:51- They're moving all the time - and that's a challenge.
0:04:52 > 0:04:56- You're also using ink. - It's a different and lively medium.
0:04:56 > 0:05:01- You can't be precise. It's an - expression more than a feeling.
0:05:01 > 0:05:04- It's the spirit - of all the movement around you.
0:05:04 > 0:05:09- I'll be using these as a reminder - back in the workshop.
0:05:14 > 0:05:19- Catrin visits a variety - of locations.
0:05:20 > 0:05:25- She aims to include many elements - of the story in her work.
0:05:25 > 0:05:30- She's visiting the Church - of St Beuno in Pistyll...
0:05:31 > 0:05:35- ..an old Celtic site on the - Pilgrims' path to Bardsey Island.
0:05:38 > 0:05:42- At special times - such as Christmas...
0:05:42 > 0:05:47- ..the church is full of wild herbs - that are used to heal illnesses.
0:06:03 > 0:06:06- Catrin collects all sorts - of information.
0:06:06 > 0:06:10- She works at speed to capture - the atmosphere of this holy place.
0:06:20 > 0:06:23- Reflection is very important.
0:06:37 > 0:06:39- What's special about this site?
0:06:40 > 0:06:43- The atmosphere is excellent. - The light is special.
0:06:43 > 0:06:48- The light that shines - through the window is incredible.
0:06:49 > 0:06:52- The stonework and the darkness - and the contrast...
0:06:52 > 0:06:57- ..between the atmosphere - and the ancient stonework.
0:06:57 > 0:07:01- This reminds me of - the tree with candles.
0:07:02 > 0:07:05- I have to use different mediums.
0:07:06 > 0:07:10- I like to build the work. I start - with pencils and pastel colours.
0:07:11 > 0:07:15- I build and strengthen the image. - I'm not scared of changing things.
0:07:15 > 0:07:18- It's a pity we can't recreate - the aromas.
0:07:18 > 0:07:22- The aromas are wonderful - - lavender, Christmas aromas...
0:07:22 > 0:07:24- ..and burning candles.
0:07:25 > 0:07:27- What part of the Christmas tale - inspires you?
0:07:27 > 0:07:30- I've just completed - a series of paintings...
0:07:30 > 0:07:33- ..based on - 'Canys Bachgen a Aned i Ni'...
0:07:33 > 0:07:36- ..an arrangement we sang - in a cerdd dant choir.
0:07:36 > 0:07:40- It's a natural progression to - use the qualities of carol singing.
0:07:40 > 0:07:45- # On a cold starry night
0:07:45 > 0:07:50- # A winged angel appeared
0:07:50 > 0:07:56- # To sing a song of splendid praise
0:07:56 > 0:08:02- # Not in a splendid golden parlour
0:08:02 > 0:08:07- # Or a grand majestic castle
0:08:07 > 0:08:12- # Or a comfortable feathered bed
0:08:13 > 0:08:16- # Was he born #
0:08:17 > 0:08:19- Our second artist lives in Deganwy.
0:08:20 > 0:08:24- He is Cefyn Burgess. He is - well known in Wales and beyond.
0:08:24 > 0:08:27- He creates wonderful textiles.
0:08:27 > 0:08:31- His work involves traditional - materials from the home...
0:08:31 > 0:08:34- ..including winnowing-sheets - and shawls.
0:08:34 > 0:08:40- Cefyn uses a special sewing machine - to recreate flowers on the material.
0:08:40 > 0:08:44- I'm amazed by his mastery - of this machine.
0:08:53 > 0:08:58- I wanted to know which part - of the Christmas story inspired him.
0:08:58 > 0:09:02- In this story of Christ's birth...
0:09:02 > 0:09:07- ..there's a short piece about Mary - wrapping Jesus in swaddling clothes.
0:09:07 > 0:09:12- She had some swaddling clothes - with her at the time...
0:09:12 > 0:09:16- ..something that was made of cotton.
0:09:17 > 0:09:20- It was a pure, white material.
0:09:20 > 0:09:25- The idea is wrapping a baby - as a special gift.
0:09:25 > 0:09:27- I'm using a dishcloth here.
0:09:27 > 0:09:32- The idea behind this was to find - different pieces of cloth...
0:09:32 > 0:09:34- ..and sew them together.
0:09:35 > 0:09:39- It recreates the Welsh idea of - the shawl wrapped around a child...
0:09:40 > 0:09:44- ..and the tradition of holding - a baby tightly against your body.
0:09:44 > 0:09:49- You're combining a Welsh tradition - with the story of Jesus' birth.
0:09:49 > 0:09:51- What about the flowers?
0:09:51 > 0:09:55- I've been looking at wild flowers.
0:09:55 > 0:10:00- Some of them are flowers - I've picked from the hedges outside.
0:10:00 > 0:10:04- Some of them have names - that have references to Mary.
0:10:05 > 0:10:08- The flowers I'm sewing right now, - the small roses...
0:10:09 > 0:10:12- ..they were the flowers - at my mother's funeral...
0:10:13 > 0:10:15- ..about 15 months ago.
0:10:15 > 0:10:19- The idea of using them now - - in the same way someone is born...
0:10:19 > 0:10:23- ..with the physical separation - from the mother...
0:10:23 > 0:10:26- ..there's also another side.
0:10:27 > 0:10:30- There are two physical separations - from the mother.
0:10:30 > 0:10:33- The second is when the mother - loses a son - Mary and Jesus...
0:10:33 > 0:10:36- ..or in my case, I lost my mother.
0:10:41 > 0:10:44- I'm sewing these pieces - onto a softer material...
0:10:44 > 0:10:49- ..than the white cloth. - I've embroidered the flowers.
0:10:49 > 0:10:54- I cut them out - and place them on here.
0:10:54 > 0:10:57- It's like adding an extra layer - of cotton.
0:10:58 > 0:11:03- What's starting to happen now is - that it's developing its own nature.
0:11:12 > 0:11:15- Catrin has found - a traditional stable.
0:11:15 > 0:11:20- It's the perfect place - for drawing the Nativity scene.
0:11:24 > 0:11:28- The cow is a very patient model!
0:11:37 > 0:11:41- Of course, in the original story, - there's no mention of animals.
0:11:41 > 0:11:45- Artists introduced the idea - of animals in the stable...
0:11:45 > 0:11:49- ..as a symbol of the warmth - needed for life.
0:11:55 > 0:11:55- 888
0:11:55 > 0:11:57- 888- - 888
0:12:00 > 0:12:04- Catrin Davies from Llandeilo - works with coloured glass.
0:12:05 > 0:12:07- Paint is her first love.
0:12:07 > 0:12:11- She was inspired to work - with glass...
0:12:11 > 0:12:15- ..after visiting - Chartres Cathedral in France.
0:12:21 > 0:12:25- Catrin is on her way to Swansea - to see a friend...
0:12:26 > 0:12:29- ..who promises to be the perfect - model for her work.
0:12:32 > 0:12:37- Jude and her baby son Solomon is - the inspiration for her portrayal...
0:12:38 > 0:12:40- ..of Mary and the baby Jesus.
0:12:42 > 0:12:45- The digital photographs - are the first step...
0:12:45 > 0:12:48- ..in a long - creative and technical process.
0:12:55 > 0:12:58- These drawings - are the basis of her work...
0:12:59 > 0:13:03- ..but the scriptures will also play - an important part in her plans.
0:13:06 > 0:13:12- Catrin chooses a verse from Matthew - for the fringes of her design.
0:13:24 > 0:13:29- Catrin develops her design - by adding coloured paint.
0:13:29 > 0:13:33- There is a special name - to this part of the process.
0:13:36 > 0:13:39- This is a cartoon.
0:13:39 > 0:13:43- This shows you all the information - about the panel...
0:13:43 > 0:13:47- ..as it should look - when it's finished.
0:13:47 > 0:13:50- It shows the glass, - the colour of the glass...
0:13:51 > 0:13:55- ..the lead lines - and all the detail on the glass.
0:13:57 > 0:14:01- I asked her about the message - she hoped to convey in her work.
0:14:02 > 0:14:04- I just wanted to show the intimacy.
0:14:06 > 0:14:09- She's reacting to Solomon.
0:14:09 > 0:14:11- He's very natural.
0:14:14 > 0:14:17- They're one unit together.
0:14:18 > 0:14:22- Are you aware of an - ancient tradition when you work?
0:14:23 > 0:14:26- It's such an ancient tradition.
0:14:27 > 0:14:34- You can't avoid links - with what's happened in the past.
0:14:37 > 0:14:41- Welsh churches lost a huge number - of stained glass windows...
0:14:42 > 0:14:45- ..when Protestantism - was introduced to Wales.
0:14:45 > 0:14:49- Catholic images were regarded - as idolatry.
0:14:50 > 0:14:52- As a result, many were destroyed.
0:14:53 > 0:14:58- Many windows were destroyed and the - windows that remain are priceless.
0:14:58 > 0:15:05- One of them is at Llanrhaeadr - yng Nghinmeirch, near Ruthin.
0:15:05 > 0:15:08- This famous window - shows the family tree of Jesus...
0:15:09 > 0:15:12- ..with Mary and Jesus at the top - - the Jesse window.
0:15:12 > 0:15:17- This is the most famous window - of the Middle Ages in Wales.
0:15:18 > 0:15:21- The layout shows the importance - of Mary and Jesus.
0:15:22 > 0:15:27- They are glorified by the - shining light that surrounds them.
0:15:28 > 0:15:31- The window is still intact today...
0:15:31 > 0:15:34- ..thanks to a group - of brave people...
0:15:34 > 0:15:37- ..who made sure it was kept safe - 500 years ago.
0:15:37 > 0:15:42- The window was dismantled and buried - in a forest inside this chest.
0:15:45 > 0:15:48- Not every treasure is on show.
0:15:49 > 0:15:51- It looks rather ordinary - on the outside.
0:15:52 > 0:15:54- There's something - very special inside.
0:15:58 > 0:16:01- This is another chapter - in the story of Jesus' birth.
0:16:01 > 0:16:06- Matthew's Gospel describes - the adoration of the kings.
0:16:06 > 0:16:09- Here, as St Samson Church - in Cardiff...
0:16:09 > 0:16:12- ..the three kings - in this plaster statue...
0:16:13 > 0:16:15- ..would be familiar - to churchgoers...
0:16:16 > 0:16:20- ..because the artist used the - priest and congregation as models.
0:16:20 > 0:16:25- In this picture by Brueghel - the Elder, the artist shows...
0:16:25 > 0:16:30- ..the hustle and bustle of life - during the Protestant Reformation.
0:16:30 > 0:16:35- The soldiers seem to be trying - to control the unruly situation.
0:16:38 > 0:16:43- The church on the hill - is far removed from the events...
0:16:43 > 0:16:45- ..in the foreground...
0:16:45 > 0:16:48- ..the arrival of a new message.
0:16:55 > 0:16:57- When you first see the painting...
0:16:57 > 0:16:59- ..it looks far removed - from Bethlehem...
0:17:00 > 0:17:02- ..at the time of Christ's birth.
0:17:02 > 0:17:06- When you look at the detail - in the painting...
0:17:06 > 0:17:09- ..you see important elements - which add to the atmosphere.
0:17:10 > 0:17:12- There's a magpie in the tree.
0:17:12 > 0:17:15- It's a bad omen for the future.
0:17:18 > 0:17:22- The stable is falling apart - - just like the old order fell apart.
0:17:23 > 0:17:29- The birth of Christ is an indication - to the world of renewed hope.
0:17:31 > 0:17:34- Brueghel shows the ordinary world, - the everyday world.
0:17:35 > 0:17:38- Right in the middle - of the ordinary world...
0:17:38 > 0:17:41- ..an extraordinary event happens.
0:17:42 > 0:17:48- 100 years later, the Catholics - were persecuted by the Puritans.
0:17:48 > 0:17:50- It was a dangerous time.
0:17:51 > 0:17:55- Thomas Gunter was a solicitor - and staunch Catholic.
0:17:55 > 0:18:00- He built a secret church in the - attic of his house in Abergavenny.
0:18:04 > 0:18:08- This graffiti belongs to that time.
0:18:09 > 0:18:12- What's special is the picture - of Christ's birth.
0:18:12 > 0:18:19- Those who worshipped this image - faced the ultimate punishment.
0:18:20 > 0:18:24- Two priests were burnt to death.
0:18:33 > 0:18:37- Under Cromwellian rule, - Christmas was forbidden...
0:18:38 > 0:18:41- ..because of the links - with suspicious idols.
0:18:41 > 0:18:46- Ordinary people continued to uphold - traditions such as Y Fari Lwyd.
0:18:57 > 0:19:00- The mythology of the time - before Christ's birth...
0:19:00 > 0:19:04- ..inspires the work of Iwan Bala.
0:19:04 > 0:19:09- I went for a walk with Iwan to - an ancient forest in south Wales...
0:19:09 > 0:19:11- ..to visit a pagan altar.
0:19:20 > 0:19:23- The rock which naturally forms - the altar...
0:19:23 > 0:19:25- ..has been carved with faces.
0:19:27 > 0:19:29- It's an enchanting place.
0:19:33 > 0:19:39- I wanted to know if this location - inspired Iwan to create new work.
0:19:40 > 0:19:44- Well, I was thinking - about creating something...
0:19:44 > 0:19:47- ..which conveyed Christmas - or celebration.
0:19:47 > 0:19:50- I had the idea of an altar - in my mind.
0:19:50 > 0:19:54- We all hang decorations in our house - over the Christmas period.
0:19:54 > 0:19:58- I'm sure it all goes back to - a time when people created altars.
0:19:59 > 0:20:02- I thought of this place. - People come here...
0:20:02 > 0:20:06- ..and use the location - as a place of worship...
0:20:07 > 0:20:10- ..or to pray - when they desire something.
0:20:11 > 0:20:14- I was thinking of a way - of making something...
0:20:15 > 0:20:19- ..that was more characteristic - of Wales in some ways.
0:20:20 > 0:20:24- I came here, a location where pagans - celebrated this time of year...
0:20:24 > 0:20:26- ..before Christ was born.
0:20:27 > 0:20:30- It became part of Christianity - later on.
0:20:32 > 0:20:37- I asked Iwan about the significance - of nature in his life as an artist.
0:20:37 > 0:20:41- Sometimes, we forget the power - of nature when we're outside.
0:20:41 > 0:20:43- You can feel it here.
0:20:43 > 0:20:47- It would be a good idea for people - to visit a forest annually.
0:20:47 > 0:20:50- They should spend some time - in forests.
0:20:50 > 0:20:54- During the Christmas period, - we have trees in our houses.
0:20:55 > 0:20:57- We're remembering - a particular period of time.
0:20:58 > 0:21:03- This is part of the experience - - collecting material.
0:21:04 > 0:21:09- I'm collecting pieces of wood to - take the spirit of the forest home.
0:21:12 > 0:21:16- Christmas traditions changed - completely during the Victorian Age.
0:21:17 > 0:21:19- It became a family occasion.
0:21:21 > 0:21:24- Commercial celebration - was introduced...
0:21:24 > 0:21:27- ..in the form of decorating - the Christmas tree...
0:21:27 > 0:21:30- ..and placing personal gifts - around it.
0:21:36 > 0:21:41- Prince Albert introduced the first - Christmas tree to this country.
0:21:41 > 0:21:43- He also introduced - other German customs...
0:21:43 > 0:21:46- ..when he married Queen Victoria.
0:21:47 > 0:21:52- Victoria and Albert adopted - these traditions with enthusiasm.
0:21:52 > 0:21:58- Soon, the tradition of Christmas - trees spread across the country.
0:22:00 > 0:22:04- In my hand - is the first Christmas card.
0:22:04 > 0:22:08- There's a happy family - celebrating in the picture.
0:22:08 > 0:22:11- On either side, people are starving.
0:22:11 > 0:22:14- The card warned - the comfortable middle class...
0:22:15 > 0:22:18- ..that they had to look after - the poor and needy.
0:22:18 > 0:22:22- Soon, Christmas cards - became very popular.
0:22:24 > 0:22:31- These cards convey the important - elements of a Victorian Christmas.
0:22:31 > 0:22:36- The emphasis is on the family - - there's little emphasis on religion.
0:22:36 > 0:22:40- The cards are something - to play with.
0:22:40 > 0:22:45- The Victorians were influenced - by the theatre.
0:22:45 > 0:22:49- They think about a theatre stage - - some things stand out.
0:22:49 > 0:22:52- They move easily back and forth.
0:23:00 > 0:23:03- It was time for me - to visit Catrin in Pwllheli.
0:23:03 > 0:23:06- By the time I arrived, - there had been heavy snowfalls...
0:23:07 > 0:23:09- ..in Snowdonia.
0:23:09 > 0:23:12- I decided to sketch - some of the scenes.
0:23:25 > 0:23:30- Catrin is creating a black and white - print as the foundation of her work.
0:23:30 > 0:23:32- # A decent congregation
0:23:32 > 0:23:34- # Worshipping in unison
0:23:34 > 0:23:37- # In glorious unity
0:23:37 > 0:23:40- # Singing your praises
0:23:40 > 0:23:47- # Our voices - are testament to our talent
0:23:47 > 0:23:51- # God sent his Son to this earth
0:23:51 > 0:23:54- # To enrich our lives
0:23:55 > 0:23:58- # Today is the day to proclaim
0:23:58 > 0:24:00- # The birth of baby Jesus #
0:24:01 > 0:24:04- I wanted to see how the sketches - she'd made outside...
0:24:05 > 0:24:07- ..had influenced her studio work.
0:24:07 > 0:24:12- The window appears at the top. - The cow has found her place...
0:24:12 > 0:24:15- ..in the middle - after sketching in the stable.
0:24:15 > 0:24:18- The sheep have crept in - at the bottom.
0:24:18 > 0:24:21- The cow looks serious - and responsible.
0:24:21 > 0:24:24- The sheep appear to be wild.
0:24:25 > 0:24:26- I'm happy with it.
0:24:26 > 0:24:30- It was difficult getting agriculture - into a church context.
0:24:32 > 0:24:36- I've combined churches - from other sketchbooks.
0:24:36 > 0:24:38- You're using your memory.
0:24:39 > 0:24:44- It's very interesting when - you're working with sketchbooks.
0:24:44 > 0:24:48- 20 years later, my colours - and palette have changed.
0:24:48 > 0:24:50- My experiences are different.
0:24:51 > 0:24:54- Catrin's technique is lively.
0:24:54 > 0:24:56- I can't wait to see - the oil paints developing.
0:25:00 > 0:25:00- .
0:25:06 > 0:25:06- 888
0:25:06 > 0:25:08- 888- - 888
0:25:21 > 0:25:25- Cefyn is visiting Melin Teifi - near Llandysul.
0:25:25 > 0:25:29- As well as the shawl, he wants to - create a traditional woollen throw.
0:25:36 > 0:25:41- I asked him if this part of - the process gave him satisfaction.
0:25:41 > 0:25:47- After a period of sketching, - researching and needlework...
0:25:47 > 0:25:50- ..the type of work I can do - in my workshop...
0:25:50 > 0:25:55- ..smelling the fabric - and hearing the machines...
0:25:55 > 0:25:59- ..and being more hands-on, - I can't tell you...
0:25:59 > 0:26:02- ..it's such a thrilling experience.
0:26:04 > 0:26:09- The colours I've chosen, even though - I've experimented with them today...
0:26:09 > 0:26:13- ..to see what they looked like - next to each other...
0:26:13 > 0:26:16- ..I don't want anything too bland.
0:26:16 > 0:26:22- Neither do I want something - that's going to jump out at you.
0:26:22 > 0:26:26- I've chosen the warm, - neutral yellow colour.
0:26:26 > 0:26:30- It has a few other colours in it - just to break it up.
0:26:32 > 0:26:34- Santa Claus, in his red suit...
0:26:34 > 0:26:38- ..is one of the most prominent - images of Christmas.
0:26:38 > 0:26:41- Santa Claus - used to wear a green suit.
0:26:41 > 0:26:45- Coco Cola devised a red suit - for him.
0:26:46 > 0:26:51- The bright red suit - was designed in 1931.
0:26:52 > 0:26:56- This image of Santa Claus differs - from the traditional image.
0:26:57 > 0:26:59- This is the original Santa Claus.
0:26:59 > 0:27:02- St Nicholas was a bishop - from Myra in Turkey.
0:27:03 > 0:27:05- Here, in Cardiff Bay...
0:27:05 > 0:27:10- ..is the small Greek Orthodox - church which bears his name.
0:27:11 > 0:27:16- It's a treasure trove - of Byzantine images.
0:27:28 > 0:27:30- What's so special about St Nicholas?
0:27:33 > 0:27:38- This panel shows the main events - in St Nicholas's life.
0:27:38 > 0:27:41- In this circle, - he saves young children.
0:27:42 > 0:27:44- He was the patron saint of children.
0:27:44 > 0:27:48- He would visit homes in - the village at this time of year...
0:27:48 > 0:27:50- ..and leave gifts for the children.
0:27:53 > 0:27:56- If we asked children for - their favourite Christmas image...
0:27:56 > 0:27:58- ..most would answer Santa Claus.
0:27:58 > 0:28:02- # Merry Christmas to you all
0:28:02 > 0:28:04- # From us all
0:28:06 > 0:28:11- # Next year, - you'll be singing here #
0:28:11 > 0:28:18- American Thomas Nast created - this image of Santa Claus in 1865...
0:28:18 > 0:28:23- ..to convey the importance of - the child as a symbol of new life...
0:28:23 > 0:28:27- ..following the atrocities - of the American Civil War.
0:28:28 > 0:28:32- The way he combines old ideas - with new ideas is very clever.
0:28:33 > 0:28:37- You can see holly - on Santa Claus's hat.
0:28:37 > 0:28:41- Old, pagan symbols appear - with a new modern message.
0:28:42 > 0:28:46- This is an example of how people - started worshipping objects...
0:28:46 > 0:28:50- ..otherwise known - as materialism and consumerism.
0:28:51 > 0:28:56- Thomas Nast shows his breadth - of understanding.
0:28:57 > 0:29:01- He includes European traditions - in the new world of America...
0:29:01 > 0:29:07- ..and develops the idea of a modern - Santa Claus and Father Christmas.
0:29:09 > 0:29:14- These figures of Santa Claus - would have confused Thomas Nast.
0:29:14 > 0:29:16- Despite globalisation...
0:29:16 > 0:29:21- ..every culture has a different - idea about his appearance.
0:29:30 > 0:29:34- Rudolph sings karaoke - to the reindeers.
0:29:38 > 0:29:42- Iwan develops and experiments - with some new ideas...
0:29:43 > 0:29:47- ..for the Christmas centrepiece - in his home.
0:29:49 > 0:29:54- As a modern artist, he is ready to - use images from all over the world.
0:29:54 > 0:29:58- These include personal treasures - such as this Greek icon...
0:29:58 > 0:30:00- ..a gift from his wife.
0:30:04 > 0:30:08- Iwan has asked his children - for their contribution.
0:30:09 > 0:30:13- He explains more - about the images and figures.
0:30:18 > 0:30:24- This figure, Cernunnos, comes from - the forest - he lives in the forest.
0:30:24 > 0:30:27- He's an old god of the forest.
0:30:28 > 0:30:30- At one time, - he had horns on his head...
0:30:31 > 0:30:33- ..like a reindeer.
0:30:34 > 0:30:37- The reindeer are his animals.
0:30:37 > 0:30:40- Are they like Santa's reindeers?
0:30:40 > 0:30:45- These on the floor or these here? - You have some on your cardigan.
0:30:45 > 0:30:49- I've chosen reindeer because - they're animals of the forest.
0:30:49 > 0:30:54- Cernunnos, as I said before, - comes from the forest.
0:30:55 > 0:30:59- Santa might be related to Cernunnos.
0:31:01 > 0:31:04- I went to see - how they were getting on.
0:31:05 > 0:31:08- I wanted to do something - in the house.
0:31:08 > 0:31:11- It's what people do - with a Christmas tree.
0:31:11 > 0:31:13- They bring it into the house.
0:31:13 > 0:31:16- I brought holly - back from the forest.
0:31:16 > 0:31:19- The children have been drawing - on the wall.
0:31:20 > 0:31:22- We create different levels - of meaning.
0:31:23 > 0:31:27- There's a story developing - on this wall.
0:31:29 > 0:31:35- I'm developing the theme - of altars in Mexican homes...
0:31:35 > 0:31:37- ..and in the Caribbean.
0:31:37 > 0:31:41- People place objects on an altar.
0:31:43 > 0:31:46- By using objects other people - have used before...
0:31:46 > 0:31:51- ..it strengthens the image - and gives them additional power.
0:31:51 > 0:31:56- I wanted to know if this - was an altar for worship.
0:31:56 > 0:32:00- As secular people, - we think about these objects...
0:32:00 > 0:32:02- ..rather than worship them.
0:32:02 > 0:32:07- Having said that, Welsh people - do worship the idea...
0:32:08 > 0:32:14- ..of continual life and the idea of - how the past influences the present.
0:32:14 > 0:32:20- Welshness relies on faith. You have - to work hard to preserve Welshness.
0:32:20 > 0:32:25- 'A fu ddoe a fydd o hyd' - what - existed once, will always exist.
0:32:25 > 0:32:28- Gerallt Lloyd Owen wrote that line.
0:32:28 > 0:32:31- I've placed a question mark - after that.
0:32:31 > 0:32:34- I'm not sure if things - will always exist.
0:32:34 > 0:32:38- You must have faith - and this is an altar for that faith.
0:32:38 > 0:32:42- I'm giving life to objects - from the past in the present.
0:32:43 > 0:32:48- In the '50s, Dylan Thomas wrote - A Child's Christmas in Wales.
0:32:48 > 0:32:53- The story brings back memories - about his childhood in the '20s.
0:32:55 > 0:32:58- Many, many, many years ago...
0:32:58 > 0:33:02- ..when he was a young boy, - when wolves...
0:33:02 > 0:33:05- Edward Arizzone - drew the illustrations.
0:33:05 > 0:33:07- They are very imaginative.
0:33:10 > 0:33:13- The way he uses ink - is very interesting.
0:33:14 > 0:33:18- He uses ink to create light - in his illustrations.
0:33:18 > 0:33:22- It's incredible to see something - as simple as ink...
0:33:22 > 0:33:26- ..being used to create this world, - a world he has devised.
0:33:27 > 0:33:31- You can feel the adventure - and excitement of Christmas time...
0:33:32 > 0:33:34- ..through the eyes of children.
0:33:34 > 0:33:38- The illustrations help me recall - my childhood Christmases...
0:33:39 > 0:33:42- ..especially the excitement - of playing in the snow.
0:33:51 > 0:33:55- Catrin Davies is drawing - the outline of her design.
0:33:56 > 0:34:00- This will guide her - as she cuts the coloured glass.
0:34:06 > 0:34:09- This particular piece of glass - is expensive.
0:34:09 > 0:34:12- Catrin must cut it very carefully.
0:34:35 > 0:34:38- By placing the panel - against the window...
0:34:39 > 0:34:42- ..Catrin can see the light - passing through the glass.
0:34:47 > 0:34:51- She also paints the glass - to alter the colour.
0:35:02 > 0:35:06- This is the traditional method - of creating the shape of the face.
0:35:25 > 0:35:29- To complete her work, Catrin - Williams uses pastel colours...
0:35:29 > 0:35:31- ..to enhance her painting.
0:35:53 > 0:35:57- Well, you've created a wonderful - painting - very striking.
0:35:57 > 0:36:01- It's colourful and lively. - The design is vibrant.
0:36:01 > 0:36:06- The colours are very strong. - The painting stands out.
0:36:07 > 0:36:10- I've gone back to using oil paints - recently.
0:36:10 > 0:36:14- I think the use of oil paints - is very strong.
0:36:15 > 0:36:18- It's very different - to acrylic paint.
0:36:18 > 0:36:24- I let the paint dry and then added - oil pastels and water pastels...
0:36:24 > 0:36:26- ..into the painting.
0:36:27 > 0:36:29- On top of the oil paint?
0:36:29 > 0:36:34- The markings are livelier - and you can highlight certain areas.
0:36:34 > 0:36:40- The cow in the painting looks like - a strong, established animal.
0:36:40 > 0:36:44- I enjoyed my time - sketching in the stable.
0:36:44 > 0:36:47- I enjoyed going back once more.
0:36:47 > 0:36:52- I used to do that for my foundation - course 20 years ago.
0:36:52 > 0:36:55- I was very interested - in the backsides of cattle!
0:36:55 > 0:36:57- This is the other side.
0:36:57 > 0:37:02- I'm not really sure - how it all came together.
0:37:03 > 0:37:08- I think I was fortunate to have - the church as a strong foundation.
0:37:09 > 0:37:14- An important element was being able - to sketch in a church and a stable.
0:37:15 > 0:37:19- The structure of your painting - is static and powerful.
0:37:19 > 0:37:22- Right in the middle, - you have lively animals.
0:37:22 > 0:37:27- The light shines through the window. - There are many different levels.
0:37:27 > 0:37:32- Life, wood, light, structure - - it's all pulled together...
0:37:32 > 0:37:36- ..by the colour and the design - to create an amazing painting.
0:37:37 > 0:37:40- It shows the spirit of Christmas.
0:37:47 > 0:37:50- To create the required effect..
0:37:50 > 0:37:55- ..Catrin Davies must heat - and colour the glass numerous times.
0:38:09 > 0:38:09- .
0:38:16 > 0:38:16- 888
0:38:16 > 0:38:18- 888- - 888
0:38:22 > 0:38:26- This house in Bala, - with its colourful decorations...
0:38:26 > 0:38:31- ..is a great example of the fashion - that's become popular in Wales.
0:38:31 > 0:38:36- This is installation art - at its finest.
0:38:36 > 0:38:40- It's a great opportunity to showcase - your creative talents...
0:38:40 > 0:38:45- ..and release the child - that hides within us all.
0:38:48 > 0:38:52- Every Christmas has to be better - than the previous one.
0:38:52 > 0:38:58- The bright lights in Bala may have - extinguished the lights of Cardiff.
0:39:02 > 0:39:05- This is a very different - perspective on Christmas.
0:39:05 > 0:39:09- All these objects - conveyed a message to me.
0:39:11 > 0:39:13- This is St Marianna.
0:39:13 > 0:39:18- I created her for an exhibition - in January 2000.
0:39:18 > 0:39:23- She was a symbol - of the new millennium.
0:39:23 > 0:39:28- I made up a story that she - was similar to Y Fari Lwyd.
0:39:29 > 0:39:31- She appeared once a year.
0:39:31 > 0:39:36- Objects have been added to her - every time she's appeared.
0:39:37 > 0:39:43- For this piece of work, - I've added these figures.
0:39:43 > 0:39:49- These faces are similar to the - faces in the rock face in Beddau.
0:39:50 > 0:39:54- She's now part of your family. She - can celebrate Christmas with you.
0:39:55 > 0:39:58- In some ways, both meet each other - for the first time.
0:39:58 > 0:40:03- I'd created a female figure - - I wanted to create a male figure.
0:40:03 > 0:40:07- This is the first time - they've been in the same room.
0:40:08 > 0:40:10- They're Mary and Joseph.
0:40:10 > 0:40:15- I have three children - and there are three reindeer here.
0:40:16 > 0:40:20- They're a symbol of how these - two objects have come together.
0:40:21 > 0:40:25- This is an unusual representation - of Christmas in Wales.
0:40:27 > 0:40:29- There are many pagan elements.
0:40:29 > 0:40:32- Are some people worried - about those elements?
0:40:32 > 0:40:35- People forget that celebrating - this time of year...
0:40:35 > 0:40:38- ..is steeped in pagan traditions.
0:40:38 > 0:40:42- Some people forget that it is - a Christian festival now.
0:40:49 > 0:40:53- Catrin Davies has reached an - important point with her glass work.
0:40:54 > 0:40:56- It's like a jigsaw now.
0:40:56 > 0:41:00- I'm joining the pieces of glass - with the lead...
0:41:00 > 0:41:04- ..and pressing every piece of glass - in place under the lead.
0:41:06 > 0:41:10- You have to bend the lead - to fit around the glass...
0:41:11 > 0:41:14- ..on the edge to make sure - it all fits together...
0:41:16 > 0:41:19- ..because it's going to be placed - in a window space.
0:41:21 > 0:41:25- The soldering work - holds it all in place.
0:41:34 > 0:41:39- In Deganwy, Cefyn is embroidering - the edges of the woollen throw.
0:42:09 > 0:42:12- We've already seen - how artists respond...
0:42:12 > 0:42:16- ..to the simplicity and warmth - of the shepherds' story...
0:42:16 > 0:42:19- ..and the exotic potential - of the wise men.
0:42:20 > 0:42:25- Often, the different aspects of the - story are combined in one picture.
0:42:25 > 0:42:31- However, the centrepiece of every - image is Mary and the baby Jesus.
0:42:38 > 0:42:41- This image inspires - an instinctive reaction.
0:42:41 > 0:42:45- A mother stares lovingly - into the eyes of her first-born.
0:42:46 > 0:42:50- # For us this Christmas morning
0:42:50 > 0:42:54- # Little child, little child
0:42:55 > 0:43:02- # The descendant of Jesse was born, - a little child
0:43:02 > 0:43:06- # The righteous on Calvary
0:43:06 > 0:43:11- # Little child, little child
0:43:11 > 0:43:17- # Sucking the bosom of Mareia, - little child #
0:43:18 > 0:43:23- This precious painting - of the Virgin Mary and Christ...
0:43:23 > 0:43:27- ..is the work of Duccio, one - of the first Renaissance artists.
0:43:28 > 0:43:31- You can see the human elements - in this painting.
0:43:32 > 0:43:35- Mary looks like a real person.
0:43:35 > 0:43:37- Jesus plays with her veil.
0:43:37 > 0:43:40- It shows an element of humour.
0:43:40 > 0:43:43- There's a bond - between mother and child.
0:43:44 > 0:43:49- Duccio works - with many fine materials.
0:43:49 > 0:43:53- The lapis lazuli in Mary's clothes - - blue is synonymous with Mary.
0:43:54 > 0:43:57- This idea has remained throughout - the history of Christian art.
0:43:58 > 0:44:04- Artists during this period didn't - attempt to create an image of Mary.
0:44:04 > 0:44:07- There's nothing false here.
0:44:07 > 0:44:10- There's no illusion in the painting.
0:44:10 > 0:44:13- It's a personal object...
0:44:13 > 0:44:17- ..something that can be used - for personal worship.
0:44:18 > 0:44:20- It's like a window - into another world...
0:44:21 > 0:44:23- ..a bright, golden world.
0:44:23 > 0:44:25- It's the world of the Holy Spirit.
0:44:31 > 0:44:36- Our Christmas baby is being wrapped - in Cefyn's beautiful shawl.
0:44:45 > 0:44:49- His mother's roses and the cowslips - have been embroidered...
0:44:49 > 0:44:52- ..in the shawl in subtle colours.
0:44:57 > 0:45:02- The geometric patterns contrast - with the embroidered flowers.
0:45:02 > 0:45:04- It's another miracle.
0:45:04 > 0:45:11- Cefyn has turned something ordinary - into something extraordinary.
0:45:11 > 0:45:16- It's such a surprise when you - realize that you started...
0:45:16 > 0:45:20- ..with a bag of dishcloths - and pieces of cotton.
0:45:20 > 0:45:23- There's been a process - to put it all together.
0:45:24 > 0:45:29- It's been made to form - a bond between mother and baby.
0:45:29 > 0:45:31- To see it being used...
0:45:32 > 0:45:37- ..and seeing it as something beyond - cloth that's been embroidered...
0:45:37 > 0:45:41- ..that means everything. - That's the foundation of it.
0:45:41 > 0:45:47- It's only valuable - when it serves a purpose.
0:45:54 > 0:45:59- In Llanwrin, near Machynlleth, there - is something else that's special.
0:45:59 > 0:46:03- We've seen some great treasures - in this programme.
0:46:03 > 0:46:05- I've kept the best until last.
0:46:06 > 0:46:12- Of all the images we've seen, this - is the earliest of Mary and Jesus.
0:46:16 > 0:46:21- The image in this window - conveys a special message to me.
0:46:21 > 0:46:24- The simplicity of the design...
0:46:24 > 0:46:28- ..emphasises the strength - of the worshippers' faith.
0:46:35 > 0:46:38- Catrin Davies's wonderful - modern interpretation...
0:46:38 > 0:46:42- ..includes interesting elements - of original abstract artwork.
0:46:45 > 0:46:51- The intention was to use the frame - to push Mary out towards us.
0:46:51 > 0:46:55- It's like a window frame, - if you want to look at it that way.
0:46:55 > 0:46:57- The light green colours...
0:46:57 > 0:46:58- The light green colours...- - She's in the light.
0:46:59 > 0:47:02- Yes, she's in the light.
0:47:02 > 0:47:06- The centrepiece - is Mary and her baby.
0:47:09 > 0:47:10- Mary as a Jew.
0:47:11 > 0:47:13- That's a strong theme.
0:47:13 > 0:47:18- Mary and Jesus were Jewish. - I thought it was rather suitable.
0:47:18 > 0:47:21- As it happened, - Jude has just had a baby.
0:47:21 > 0:47:24- I thought it was perfect.
0:47:24 > 0:47:27- You've included words at the bottom.
0:47:27 > 0:47:29- What are the words?
0:47:31 > 0:47:34- 'The virgin will be with child...
0:47:34 > 0:47:40- ..'and will give birth to a son, - and they will call him Immanuel...
0:47:40 > 0:47:43- ..'which means, "God with us".'
0:47:43 > 0:47:48- It sums it all up for me.
0:47:48 > 0:47:52- I like the way it says - 'wele' at the start of the verse.
0:47:52 > 0:47:54- Here we are.
0:47:54 > 0:47:59- I compare the image in your window - to someone from medieval times.
0:47:59 > 0:48:02- Someone who can't - understand or read...
0:48:02 > 0:48:06- ..but can see the message - from a colourful design.
0:48:06 > 0:48:11- It's a striking image and it works - wonderfully well. It's very holy.
0:48:13 > 0:48:18- I would love to see this - being placed in a chapel or church.
0:48:18 > 0:48:21- # We wish you
0:48:22 > 0:48:25- # A merry Christmas
0:48:28 > 0:48:32- # We share all our gifts with you
0:48:36 > 0:48:39- # We sing together
0:48:40 > 0:48:42- # We celebrate together
0:48:44 > 0:48:48- # This is the celebration - of Jesus' birth
0:48:48 > 0:48:50- # We will remember forever #
0:48:56 > 0:48:59- Cardiff's Christmas lights - have inspired Iwan...
0:48:59 > 0:49:02- ..to decorate his work - in a sensational way.
0:49:04 > 0:49:07- What about the lights - and the flowers?
0:49:07 > 0:49:12- Santa Lucia is the Queen of Lights.
0:49:12 > 0:49:16- I'm trying to combine - different aspects here.
0:49:16 > 0:49:22- I wanted to create - an alternative Christmas grotto.
0:49:22 > 0:49:28- We're in Cardiff Bay, a very - multi-cultural part of the city.
0:49:28 > 0:49:34- Cernunnos became the centrepiece - of the presentation...
0:49:34 > 0:49:36- ..and then we introduced - Santa Lucia.
0:49:37 > 0:49:41- I've combined different saints - and gods.
0:49:41 > 0:49:43- Tell me about the two faces.
0:49:44 > 0:49:46- I've used the face of Janus...
0:49:46 > 0:49:50- ..the god who gave his name - to the month of January.
0:49:52 > 0:49:56- We're looking back to the past - and forward to the future.
0:49:56 > 0:49:58- It's also a bit of fun.
0:50:06 > 0:50:10- We've reached the end - of our Christmas story.
0:50:10 > 0:50:13- The artists have created - unforgettable images.
0:50:13 > 0:50:16- They have responded - in different ways to Christmas.
0:50:17 > 0:50:21- In doing so, they have - intensified our understanding...
0:50:21 > 0:50:24- ..of this special time of year.
0:50:31 > 0:50:35- # Hark the herald angels sing
0:50:35 > 0:50:41- # Glory to the newborn king #
0:50:41 > 0:50:41- .