On Sunday 24 November, the Canal & River Trust will host a unique, family-friendly creative workshop in partnership with Juneau Projects – the acclaimed artist duo of Ben Sadler and Phil Duckworth. The workshop is designed to engage participants of all ages, and will take place from 10am to 3pm at the Cefn Community Council’s George Edwards Hall in Well Street, Cefn Mawr, Wrexham County Borough.
The workshop offers a hands-on opportunity for families to explore the Cefn Mawr and District Museum’s collection through art. It will focus on creating a collaborative zine – a small publication – inspired by the museum’s objects and stories.
A heartfelt tribute
Participants will be guided through various creative processes, including collage, drawing, photography, and graphic design. No previous experience is necessary.
It promises to be an exciting event where the whole community can come together to explore their creativity and contribute to the production of a finished zine that will inspire even more people.
Ben Sadler, one-half of Juneau Projects, was so moved by his visit to the Cefn Mawr and District Museum that he created a stunning painting in response to the collection. He has generously offered this artwork as a gift to the museum. So this workshop is not only an opportunity for community engagement but also a heartfelt tribute to the shared heritage of Cefn Mawr.
Shared and sharing histories
As the UK Art, Culture, People & Place strategic development lead and North Wales World Heritage Site Art Project Director for the Canal & River Trust, I (Claire Farrell) am really excited about this weekend’s event.
Architectural heritage and monuments are half the story. To truly bring these heritage sites and experiences to life we need to collate, preserve, and share the social and lived histories that span generations of families across Wrexham Rural.
The Cefn Mawr and District Museum does just that in its preservation of artefacts, memorabilia, and archives donated and run by the community, which makes this place even more inspirational. Cefn Mawr is one of the most fascinating places I have ever been. It has literally been built on industry – the heritage of this era is embedded in the incredible topography visible today.
Artist duo Juneau Projects have worked with museum collections, from the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery to a recent large-scale project with the North Lincolnshire Museum. I am so delighted that Cefn Community Council has given the artists the opportunity to co-create something with the community on Sunday 24 November. Something that will pay homage to this unique and special collection.
A memorable experience
Mr. Phil Vaughan, Chairman of Cefn Community Council, has also shared his thoughts about this project.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Canal & River Trust and Juneau Projects for bringing this exciting event to Cefn Mawr. This workshop will provide an innovative way for our community to connect with the museum’s rich history while fostering creativity and collaboration.”
“We hope this event will not only bring people together but also inspire pride in our local heritage.”
This free drop-in event is open to all ages, making it a perfect way for families to come together and explore the museum in a whole new way. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a fun activity for the family, this workshop is sure to be a memorable experience.
For more information about the event, contact Canal & River Trust. We so look forward to seeing you there!
