Volunteer with ArtREGEN

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The Pontypool Indoor Market Community Mural, pictured above, was designed and painted by Mary James,  a trustee of artREGEN, assisted by Kate Verity, Jane Rosair, Lorna Savidge, Elsie and Jennie Simons, also a trustee of artREGEN. It is situated in the lower entrance to the market off Commercial Street, opposite Ragamuffins Emporium.

Our vision for the Pontypool Market mural was to create a vibrant and welcoming celebration of the market and the people who have made it such an important part of Pontypool's identity. It brings together memories of the past, the life of the market today, and hopes for its future.

At the centre of the mural is the stylised blue boar, framed by blue pillars and silhouettes of significant local buildings. This references the Blue Board Field of 1846, the historic site on which the present market building, dating from 1894, stands.

The left-hand side celebrates the market's rich traditions and the produce that generations of local people remember. Spice jars refer to Warrens, a long-established market business selling a variety of goods from spices, herbs, and cereals to dog biscuits and sandwiches. The chickens represent the many butchers' shops once found in the market - local memories recall as many as six during the 1970s and 1980s.

Fish and Cockles recall another much-loved market tradition: fresh cockles from Swansea, eaten on the spot with vinegar. Fruit and vegetables represent the many produce stalls supplied by farmers and local growers. The sweets celebrate the family business of Trumans, fondly remembered by people who visited the market with their Mams and Nans for a special treat. Trumans also had a sweet factory in the town.

The right-hand side of the mural looks towards continuity, creativity, and hope. A traditional Mexican sun pattern, donated by a new Mexican cafe in the market, reflects The Light We Carry  while acknowledging the diverse cultures that are part of the market today.

A plate of faggots and peas connects the present market with personal memories of the past. One local man recalled holding his wedding reception at the faggots and peas stall in the 1980s. Warrens is represented again through shelves of jars, reinforcing the theme of continuity.

At the heart of this future-facing section is Elsie, a young participant who joined us in preparing and painting the mural. Her sun and a child's drawing of a palace represent the imagination, aspiration and hope for the market, the town,  and its people.

This stunning 9 metre x 2.5 metre mural was painted by Mural and Wall Artist, Andy O'Rourke. The mural and the art panels in the walkway (shown below) are in the pedestrian entrance to the Riverside Car Park from Osbourne Road in Pontypool, and are also part of The Light We Carry trail. We wanted to involve younger community members in this project. The 12 metal panels that comprise part of the bridge section of the entrance walkway were the ideal place for more artwork. We used some of the grant (see below) to hold four workshops. 

Kate Verity, another mural and street artist who works closely with Andy O'Rourke, held two workshops with children from the West Monmouth School Gypsy Traveller Community. Kate Said: "During the first session, I got to know the young people, and we looked at photos and books about the travelling community and talked about their culture. The first two pupils discussed the history of the Pontypool area. I explained that we would create metal panels, and photos of the panels would be displayed in the walkway. I showed examples of the metal art technique, and five pupils made their own pieces. These included the word 'Community' and imagery from traditional travelling culture, such as wagons and horses, of which the pupils are so proud.  When the metal plates were finished, we used a kaleidoscope app to photograph them and then create new patterned pictures from the original works. 

In the second session, I worked with 5 pupils, and one of artREGEN's Trustees also created a piece. One of the pupils had worked with me during the previous session and had enjoyed it; he returned with his friend. These boys sometimes struggle to find creative inspiration, but are keen to encompass the travelling community culture. They enjoyed cutting out the shapes they needed to make letters, and they quickly understood how to use the materials. Using the kaleidoscope effect to create new images from the originals is a way of creating larger panels to use in the walkway installation."

The Original plates have been returned to the pupils. These images represent not only the heritage of the Gypsy Traveller Community but also the products created from the iron and steel industry in Pontypool. 

The next two workshops, run by Andy O'Rourke, were with members of Ieuenctid Torfaen Youth. Andy explained his vision for the mural, the historic significance of iron and steel smelting, and how the young people could help create fire and light imagery that complemented the large mural and the work of the Gypsy Traveller children.  With the aid of a multitude of interesting, hand-held lights and some relevant props, one person posed whilst the others moved around behind them, creating light trails that were captured on camera using a long exposure. The first workshop was marred by dreadful weather conditions that prevented several members from attending. The second workshop was better attended, and participants were more relaxed and enthusiastic, creating very interesting images. 

The panels are up in the walkway to Riverside car park and have been enthusiastically received by the community.

All of the above murals and artworks were funded by grants from the
UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund

Support ArtREGEN: Your Donations Make a Difference!

At ArtREGEN, we believe in the power of art to transform lives and bring together the community. As a charity dedicated to providing access to creative opportunities, we rely on the generosity of individuals like you to help us continue our mission.

Why Your Support Matters

Your donations play a crucial role in enabling us to:

• Fund Art Programs: We aim to offer events and enable more art projects that empower individuals to explore their creativity and develop their artistic skills.

• Support Emerging Artists: Your contributions help us provide resources and platforms for talented artists to showcase their work and gain exposure.

• Promote Inclusivity: We strive to make art accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances. Your support allows us to reach underserved communities and provide them with the tools they need to express themselves.

How You Can Help

1. Make a Donation: Every pound counts! See below how to make a one-time or recurring donation. Your generosity directly supports our programs and initiatives.

2. Become a Monthly Donor: Consider becoming a monthly donor. Your ongoing support helps us plan for the future and expand our reach.

3. Spread the Word: Share our mission with your friends and family. The more people who know about ArtREGEN, the more support we can gather to make a difference.

Join Us in Creating Change

Art has the power to heal, inspire, and unite. With your help, we can continue to bring art into the lives of those who need it most. Together, we can create a vibrant community where everyone has the opportunity to express themselves and thrive.

Donations may be made by BACS transfer:

Account Name  Artregen

Account Number:  67495548

Sort Code: 08-92-99