A vibrant piece of artwork celebrating 200 years of the modern railway has been unveiled by pupils of Ysgol Y Waun.
The project was made possible through funding from 3 Counties Connected Community Rail Partnership (CRP) and Transport for Wales as part of their Railway 200 programme.
The impressive mural, measuring 1.2m by 2.4m, showcases the pupils’ unique perspective on their hometown of Chirk, its culture, history and natural beauty, and its connection to railway heritage.
Rhiannon Roberts of Rhiannon Art Ltd worked closely with the pupils, guiding them through the creative process from initial concept development to the final brushstrokes. The collaboration provided a valuable opportunity for the children to express their artistic talents, learn more about their local heritage and contribute to a lasting piece of public art.
Adding a special touch to the project, the timber for the mural was kindly donated and delivered by the local Chirk branch of builders’ merchant Jewsons. This heartwarming contribution came about after member of staff Lee discovered his former primary school was undertaking the artwork and enthusiastically offered their support.
Josie Rayworth, 3 Counties Connected CRP officer, said: “It was a real privilege to be part of the mural project with Ysgol y Waun. The school gave us such a warm welcome, and it was fantastic to meet the pupils and see their enthusiasm first-hand.
“I was really pleased to have a go myself, it was great fun to get involved! Huge thanks to Rhiannon Art for doing such an amazing job bringing the mural to life and helping celebrate Welsh culture and language, Railway 200 and our areas railway heritage.”
Nichola Morgan, Foundation Phase lead at Ysgol Y Waun, said: “We were absolutely delighted when Josie Rayworth from 3 Counties Connected CRP funded this incredible art project for us at Ysgol Y Waun. We are incredibly grateful that our Criw Cymraeg had this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to collaborate with the talented artist Rhiannon Roberts.
“The outstanding mural, which beautifully depicts our local community and Welsh heritage, will be proudly displayed on our Foundation Phase site. A heartfelt thank you for turning our dream into a reality.”
Dr Louise Moon, Wales & Borders Railway 200 programme lead, said: “This artwork creates a great legacy for the Railway 200 programmes in Chirk and is a great example showcasing the connections between the railways, communities and our future generations.”
Keep up to date with future news, projects and events from 3 Counties Connected CRP via their website.
