Matthew Lanyon was an artist whose expansive body of work explored a multiplicity of subjects including the environment and cultural legacy of his native Cornwall, mythological and sacred storytelling, geology, love, astronomy, comedy, vanity, pre-historic sites and the concept of time.

Since Matthew’s death in 2016, Judith Lanyon has cared for and developed the artist’s legacy, co-directing the award-winning film ‘No Holds Barred: The Life and Art of Matthew Lanyon’ with filmmaker, Barbara Santi, as well as creating a unique archive and specialist art library in Penzance, West Cornwall. Screenings in 2024 include the Bertha DocHouse (Curzon Bloomsbury), The Poly Falmouth, St Ives Festival and Newlyn Filmhouse.

On this site you will find details of Matthew’s biography, examples of work, including painting, 3D objects, poetry, illustration, art books, surreal short films, tapestry and stained glass, as well as a distinct section focussed on architectural drawing and construction.

The development of the Matthew Lanyon Archive is ongoing with archive residencies, film screenings and events. See the Archive and News pages for more and subscribe to the ML Archive newsletter.

Matthew’s work has been supported by Art Fund and recently acquired by Penlee House Museum & Gallery. From Oct - Dec 2024, Matthew’s work was exhibited at the New Craftsman Gallery. You can still view his original website here.