A designer, artist and furniture maker from Talybont has received an award for his work.

Stephen Owen, 61, created two pieces of church furniture, a Prayer Chapel Communion Table and Lectern, for Guildford Baptist Church in 2016.

Stephen’s lectern was to become the chapel’s focal point in the form of a cross, followed by a communion table that picks up the theme of the empty tomb.

Both pieces of furniture were crafted from oak over a six-month period.

The artist’s furniture was recently awarded the Art + Christianity Award for a permanent new commission, and was celebrated for its “spiritual metaphor in sculpture form”.

The Art and Christianity Awards are separated into two categories; permanent new commissions and temporary installations and exhibitions.

Stephen said: “I consider this work to be the most significant I have made in over 30 years of working with wood.

“When I created them, I kept in mind the spiritual metaphor of transformation and it has been remarkable to watch how people relate to these pieces.

"I have been amazed at the response people have shown and shared with me.”

The communion table was shortlisted two years ago in The Wood Awards, as well as being exhibited at the International Design exhibition in London.

Guildford Baptist Church commented on the work: “These unique pieces touch hearts and minds, providing a continual focal point for contemplation and connection to God.

"With them, Stephen Owen has created highly evocative pieces that will stand the test of time.”