Gareth Parry was born in Blaenau Ffestiniog from quarrying heritage and attended Manchester School of Art, but left before completing his studies to return home to his roots and work at a local slate quarry. After two years he began painting again mainly on private commissions as a source of income.

In 1980 he decided to concentrate on exhibiting and spent the following ten years painting only en plein air. Working through all weathers taught him to be selective with his brushstrokes and the materials he used. He remarks of this period that it was vital in his development as an artist and ''the best teaching I could ever have''.

More recently his paintings are based on memory and pencil sketches rather than battling with the elements. His landscapes focus on atmosphere and mood and mostly center around Wales. Parry was elected a member of the Royal Cambrian Academy in 2006.