TOP illustrator and graphic artist, Aylwyn Bowen fascinated members of the Devonshire Association’s Literature and Art Section when they met in the Boniface Centre, Crediton on Saturday, August 26.

Giving an illustrated talk about his work, Aylwyn is the man who created the gateway signs in Exeter such as at the Science Park, among much other work in the city.

He showed examples of his work, copies of which can be bought in the Royal Albert Museum, Exeter.

Aylwyn grew up over his father’s ironmonger shop, was at Exeter College of Art for four years from 1971 and co-funded one of the most successful design studios outside London.

Aylwyn now restricts himself to a small number of clients, focussing on his first love of illustration with a highly visible public profile across the city.

He has received widespread acclaim for his public artworks and he says that 50 years’ experience in design has encouraged him to explore new areas of work such as presenting talks and workshops, especially for the education sector.

Aylwyn says: “When it comes to design, experience has taught me that although fashionable trends have their place, they can be short-lived – the best ideas are timeless.

“Like the appeal of the best songs, good design should be as fresh and meaningful after 10 years as it was the day it was conceived.”