Bron Afon celebrates another beautiful community mural for Cwmbran

Bron Afon Community Housing has celebrated the second installation of two beautiful community murals in Cwmbran. 

The social landlord commissioned Stephanie Roberts, a Newport-based mosaic and visual artist, to create the artworks, which feature natural elements including flowers, birds, bees and water representing the Afon Llwyd. The first mural was designed by local school children and is located at Victoria Street in Old Cwmbran.  The second one was designed by local residents and is placed in green space near Malthouse Close in Llantarnam.    

Funding for the project came from Bron Afon as part of planning requirements with local firm, P and P Builders.  

Alan Brunt, Chief Executive, Bron Afon, said: “It’s great to see another incredible piece of artwork in our communities. 

“The way people came together with Stephanie to produce something so beautiful for the benefit of everyone is a fantastic example of the kind of community spirit and creativity we should see more of. 

“I would like to say a big thank you to all those involved.” 

Neil Whatley, a resident who took part in the project, said, “It was a thrilling experience to work on the design for the mural.   

“When you finally see what you imagined all put together, it is so effective and the fact that it is now such a polished piece is a real tribute to Stephanie.”  

Stephanie Roberts said, “What excited me most was the input that came through from the local people.  Their enthusiasm to create this artwork was authentic and heartfelt. Their desire to explore the local area for historical reference brought about the visual image of a black bird holding a ‘cross’ of twigs, referencing the Welsh name for that particular location, Black Birds Cross – ‘Croes-y-Mwyalch’.  

“Inspired also by the beauty of the green space, I’m super proud of the participants’ commitment to the project’s design and making.” 

“It’s amazing to see this piece now in position and it’s so important that Bron Afon celebrates these connective projects.”