Two new sculptures inspired by Welsh mythology have been installed at Cwmcarn Forest, giving visitors a new way to connect with the legendary story of Brân.
The striking artworks, titled Brân’s Foot and the Cauldron of Rebirth, have been placed around the lakeside and were created by South Wales based artist collective NoNaffArt CIC. Since being installed, the sculptures have already been attracting attention from visitors exploring the popular forest destination.
Inspired by the ancient tale of Brân from the Mabinogion, the installations aim to bring the story to life while encouraging people to explore the surrounding landscape. The project also includes new interpretive panels at Cwmcarn Visitor Centre and near the sculptures to help explain the mythology and its connection to the area.
The initiative was funded through Visit Wales’ Brilliant Basics programme, alongside match funding from Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Regeneration Department. Additional support from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund helped fund the interpretive panels.
Cllr Chris Morgan, Cabinet Member for Waste, Leisure & Green Spaces at Caerphilly County Borough Council, said the sculptures were already making an impact.
“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.”
The sculptures were designed by artists who drew inspiration from the mythology and landscape of the area.
Tania Bryan, Director and Designer of Bran’s Foot, commented:
“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 brans foot in the form of a tree growing out from the soil itself.”
Louis Smith, Designer & Lead Sculptor for ‘Cauldron of Rebirth’, commented:
“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.”
Visitors to Cwmcarn Forest are now encouraged to explore the lakeside and discover the sculptures for themselves while learning more about the mythology that inspired them.
