FOR Cardiff is launching a campaign to celebrate the city’s unsung heroes during the coronavirus pandemic with internationally recognised artist, Nathan Wyburn.
They are asking the public to nominate individuals who have gone above and beyond to help people in their communities in these difficult times. Ten nominees will be carefully chosen by FOR Cardiff’s judging panel to receive their very own portrait, painted by Nathan.
Non-essential retail businesses could be allowed to open in Wales in a little over two weeks’ time. FOR Cardiff will be displaying the portraits in store windows across Cardiff city centre to give people the opportunity to pay tribute to the community heroes.
An example of Nathan’s most recent work includes a ‘walking portrait’ of fundraising hero Captain Tom Moore by footprints. Each of the ten nominees selected will be presented with their own portrait to keep.
FOR Cardiff are partnering with Cardiff Museum to ensure that the stories shared help record how the people of Cardiff reacted to and were impacted by Covid-19 . The submissions will be available for use and research by the museum and public for generations to come.
Nominations are open for all those who have put the needs of others above their own. It could be someone who helps with your shopping, creates, or donates PPE items for local hospitals, a volunteer at a foodbank or someone who provides online educational support for children during lockdown.
Adrian Field, FOR Cardiff’s Executive Director said: “The coronavirus crisis has presented our communities with huge challenges, but in times of adversity, there are people out there who are putting their own needs to one side by helping others.
“We want to recognise those who are making a difference, whether they are a key worker, a friend or family member.
“While FOR Cardiff are unable to encourage people into Cardiff’s city centre for the time being, we wanted to celebrate the inspirational people that call Cardiff home when the time comes to welcome people back into the city safely.
“I know we are all looking forward to showing our gratitude to Cardiff’s COVID19 heroes.”
Artist, Nathan Wyburn, said: “I can’t wait to get started on this project. Throughout lockdown I’ve been trying to create as many pieces of art that represent the time, comment on the time and most importantly to say thank you. As artists I’ve always felt it’s our duty to comment on things as they happen in the world, to document and to help. This project will hopefully make the chosen people feel appreciated and loved. My work is often reserved for the likes of Hollywood icons, royalty and pop stars – but these people are the everyday stars now. Art can often express emotions where words can’t, and that’s what I aim to do through this.”
To nominate your hero and to view the terms and conditions, visit: www.forcardiff.com/cardiff-covid-19-heroes/ Nominations close at 11:59pm on Friday 12 June 2020.
