New Sculptures at Cwmcarn Forest Bring Legend of Brân to Life
Two striking sculptures inspired by the legendary story of Brân have been installed around the lakeside at Cwmcarn Forest in Newport, Gwent. Completed by the South Wales-based artist collective NoNaffArt CIC, these installations have already garnered positive feedback from visitors, quickly becoming a focal point for exploration and discussion.
Artistic Interpretations of Mythology
The sculptures, titled 'Brân's Foot' and the 'Cauldron of Rebirth', are designed to engage people with the rich mythology of the area. Tania Bryan, director and designer of Brân's Foot, explained: "The concept of Brân's Foot was a natural progression after the creation of the bees and his treasure. The design is inspired by nature and the belief that Brân is deep rooted in the history of Twmbarlwm, hence the depiction of Brân's foot in the form of a tree growing out from the soil itself."
Louis Smith, designer and lead sculptor for 'Cauldron of Rebirth', added: "Inspired by Brân, I focused on his cauldron of rebirth, which has the power to bring back the dead, as depicted in the Mabinogion. Using local Welsh Pennant stone, the stone's arrangement is taken from the rushing water, connecting the sculpture to its local environment and the streams of Cwmcarn."
Funding and Community Impact
This project was made possible with funding from Visit Wales' Brilliant Basics programme and a match contribution from the CCBC Regeneration Department. Additionally, a contribution from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund helped complete the interpretive panels installed at the Cwmcarn Visitor Centre and by the sculptures, enhancing the storytelling experience.
Cllr Chris Morgan, cabinet member for Waste, Leisure and Green Spaces, commented: "It's been fantastic to see how quickly these sculptures have captured people's imaginations. Since their installation, they've already become a real talking point for visitors, encouraging people to explore the lakeside and connect with the rich mythology of the area. Projects like this not only enhance the visitor experience at Cwmcarn Forest Drive, but also help bring our local stories to life in a creative and engaging way."
Visitor Engagement and Forest Attractions
Visitors are encouraged to explore these captivating artworks and experience the story of Brân for themselves. Cwmcarn Forest is a fantastic visitor attraction offering a range of family-friendly activities, including:
- Scenic drives and mountain biking trails
- Stunning walks and a welcoming visitor centre
- On-site accommodation such as lodges, glamping pods, and tent or caravan pitches
NoNaffArt CIC, a collective of visual artists, designers, and wellbeing coaches, brings a broad range of skills including fine art, ceramics, glassmaking, and sculpture to this project. The Visit Wales Brilliant Basics Fund aims to improve essential visitor infrastructure across Wales, ensuring positive and memorable experiences for all tourists.
