In December 2018, Ceredigion Youth Service and the County Council’s Economy and Regeneration team called on young people, aged between 8-25, to help spruce up an area along Aberystwyth Promenade by sharing their creative ideas. An area which regularly attracts vandalism, on the upper level of the shelter has now been replaced with a large, colourful mural reflecting the heritage of Aberystwyth, and what Aberystwyth means to young people.
The response to the design competition was fantastic and the Youth Service received a whole host of imaginative designs, with a panel of judges choosing four winners. The panel enjoyed elements from all four designs, which were combined into one large design by renowned professional graffiti artist, Lloyd the Graffiti.
The winning designs were created by; Daisy Anderson from Penparcau Youth Club, Gwenno Evans from Aberystwyth University, Pheobe Hinks from Ysgol Penglais and Carys Owen from Ysgol Penweddig. The competition winners will receive a prize generously donated by Aberystwyth Arts Centre and Ceredigion County Council, which will be presented to them at a launch which will take place once the project is completed.
Councillor Catrin Miles, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Learning Services said, “It’s great to see this area along the Promenade renovated, with a colourful and eye-catching design. It’s also refreshing knowing that young people’s views are considered, and that the design was created using young people’s ideas. We hope that locals and visitors alike will enjoy.”
Elen James, Corporate Lead Officer for Lifelong Learning and Culture, with responsibility for Ceredigion Youth Service said, “This project has been a fantastic opportunity for young people to influence an area of their community. The Youth Service work incredibly hard to advocate on behalf of young people and the idea of gathering designs from young people was well received. The second stage of the project will see the lower level of the shelter renovated in the same manner. We hope that all of Aberystwyth’s residents will enjoy the artwork.”
For more information about the work of Ceredigion Youth Service, visit their Facebook, Twitter or Instagram page @GICeredigionYS or visit their website www.giceredigionys.co.uk.
