PAINTINGS of two very different kind of ‘heroes’ currently adorn the walls of the Oriel Môn gallery thanks to a Welsh international footballer.

Goalkeeper Owain Fôn Williams, born and raised in the Dyffryn Nantlle area of Gwynedd, was part of the successful Wales squad which reached the Euro 2016 semi-final in France.

In his spare time, he's also a talented artist and his exhibition entitled 'Heroes' has been unveiled at the Llangefni gallery over the weekend.

Williams' work features a collection of 11 original paintings that cover two heroic themes.

His first set depicts the Welsh national football team who reached the Euro semi-finals, detailing his memories of that incredible summer through portraits in the series which include the ever-recognisable duo of Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey.

This exhibition also includes a ‘self-filmed’ fan documentary by Iwan Pritchard Huws, a close friend of Williams who died following a fatal accident on Tryfan earlier this year.

In the second part of Williams' exhibition, he pays tribute to his personal 'heroes', the quarrymen of North Wales.

Having grown up in Penygroes, he says he finds the history, heritage, culture and communities created by the slate industry 'truly incredible'.

"I gain inspiration from the sense of belonging to the generations of my family that worked in the hardship of the slate quarries," said Williams, who currently plays for United Soccer League side Indy Eleven.

"The bond of brotherhood on the football pitch, the natural and living environment where I grew up and my pride in my Welsh national identity all play a part in my work.

"I’ve always felt fortunate in being able to turn to my artwork; it has been a way of escaping the day to day pressures of life in the footballing world."

Williams, who's exhibit at Oriel Môn will run until August 5 says art has helped him stay connected to his Welsh roots.

"Painting has definitely helped me keep my connections with Dyffryn Nantlle and my affection for Welsh identity and our people," he said.

"The opportunity to exhibit my artwork and collaborate with Oriel Môn is also something very special for me.

"It is a real privilege to have been given this opportunity, especially due to my family ties with Amlwch and the island."