Five new nature-inspired mosaic artworks have appeared in green spaces across Gwent in Wales, with the intent of inspiring people to think about the nature in our communities.
The artworks have been developed by the Nature isn’t Neat project, which aims to raise awareness of the decline in pollinators and encourage local action, and create new meadows in towns and villages across Gwent.
The five sculptures that complete the trail are situated in Gilfach, Bargoed; Bryn Bach Park, Tredegar; Rogerstone Welfare Grounds, Rogerstone; Fairhill, Cwmbran and Bailey Park, Abergavenny.
Each has a QR code to scan that reveals information about the plants and pollinators that inspired each sculpture.
The mosaics celebrate the relationship between wildflowers, pollinators and people of Gwent. Each sculpture is inspired by a local plant and pollinator species, which can be seen in the mosaics.
Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change and the Environment, Cllr Catrin Maby said, “The new artworks are fantastic and provide a lasting testament to Nature Isn’t Neat and the positive effect its principles have had on wildlife and pollinators across Gwent.”
“The selective mowing approach that allows grasses and wildflowers to thrive for longer is supporting pollinators and a diverse range of wildlife generally. To have the community come together to help celebrate this through a community led artwork is truly wonderful.”
The community art project was supported by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development: Europe Investing in Rural Areas and is funded by the Welsh Government’s Enabling of Natural Resources and Well-being Grant.
The Gwent Green Grid team is made up of officers from Monmouthshire County Council, Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council, Caerphilly County Borough Council, Newport Council and Torfaen County Borough Council all working together with Natural Resources Wales, Forest Research and the Severn Wye Energy Agency as well.
