Talented young artists in Newtown and Montgomeryshire can develop their interest and skills thanks to a £60,000 grant secured by Powys County Council.
Criw Celf provides opportunities for pupils to experience inspirational visual arts workshops and the project is being delivered in north Powys by Newtown Oriel Davies Gallery.
The council’s Arts Service was successful in its application to the Arts Council for Wales, which will see the project continue until the end of 2017 as well as rolling out across Wales.
Since it began, Criw Celf has provided experimental sessions facilitated by professional artists that are aimed at developing the skills and confidence of pupils and advocating creative qualifications.
Over seventy-five young people, with particular talent or interest in the visual arts, have been immersed in professionally led arts activities including visits to national exhibitions.
It has allowed participants to work with artist role models, who work professionally in the visual arts, gaining the skills, knowledge and experience to enable them to move forward to the next stage of the visual arts education with more confidence.
Cllr Graham Brown, Cabinet Member responsible for Arts and Culture, said: “I’m delighted that the Arts Council for Wales have provided this funding, which will allow the project to build on its achievements in encouraging able young people to develop artistic skills and produce some truly outstanding work .
“The project provides a fantastic opportunity for young people to take part in something quite special and it will increase their knowledge, confidence and experience in creating visual art, enabling some to take their interest to the next level.”
To find out more about Criw Celf, contact Lucy Bevan, the council’s Arts and Culture Commissioning Officer, on 01597 82 7550 or email lucy.bevan@powys.gov.uk
