Morgan Willey

Morgan Willey is a landscape and seascape artist based in Dorset. Her work responds to the coastline and countryside around her, with a focus on atmosphere, light and surface. She works primarily in oil paint, while also experimenting with mixed media processes such as stitch and print.

Morgan studied Jewellery and Silversmithing at the University for the Creative Arts in Farnham. Her background in making continues to influence her approach to painting, particularly in her attention to material and process.

She has exhibited with the Royal Society of British Artists and was awarded the John Lynn Commemorative Award for Young Artist. She has also received the SAA Abstract and Experimental Artist of the Year award and was featured in their magazine. While at university, she was selected as one of Crafts magazine’s Graduates to Watch.

Education

2021 - 2024

Bachelour of Arts (Honours), Jewellery and Silversmithing 

The University for the Creative Arts , Farnham Surrey  

 

In my final degree project, I created a series of knitted rings that were cast in bronze. Some of the rings were then oxidised or silver-plated. My project stemmed from the enjoyment of knitting and the repitive rhythm that keeps my hands busy as I knit. My project was mentioned in the Crafts Council 'Graduates to watch in 2024'. 

My final project can also be viewed here: UCA Gradshow 2024

2020 - 2021

Art & Design Foundation Diploma 

Weymouth College, Dorset

 

During my time at Weymouth College I explored lots of different mediums, including ceramics and printmaking. I particulalry enjoyed Life drawing classes, and towards the end of my Diploma I began to find a passion for landscape painting. 

2018 - 2020

A-levels: Art, Photography, Sociology

The Thomas Hardye School- Sixth Form, Dorchester 

 

I first learnt how to use oil paints during my a-levels, where I created a series of portrait paintings in oils for my final exam. 

Exhibitions 

Gorstella Gallery, Celebrating 35 Years, Chester, 2025

 

The Cass Art Prize, Copeland Gallery, London, 2025

 

Stinsford Art Studios, Under Open Skies, Dorset, 2025

 

Royal Society of British Artists, Mall Galleries, London, 2025 

 

Art in Poundbury, Winter Exhibition, Dorset, 2024, 2025

 

Art for Youth, Mall Galleries, London, 2024, 2025

 

Art at Home, Sarah Sclater, Dorset, 2024, 2025

 

Home, Walfordmill, Wimborne, 2024

 

Graduation Show, UCA, Farnham, 2024

 

Beneath The Surface, Farnham Pottery, 2024

 

Modern Art Medals: Making History in 30 years, Central Saint Martins 2023

Awards 

Royal Society of British Artists - John Lynn Commemorative Award for a Young Artist - 2025 

 

SAA - Abstract or Experimental Artist of the Year -2025