| Summary |
The History of the Railway through Art project celebrates 200 years of rail history through creativity and inclusion. Working with learners from Ysgol Y Gogarth, a local Additional Learning Needs (ALN) school in Llandudno, the Conwy Valley and North Wales Coast Community Rail Partnership (CRP) will host weekly art sessions led by an experienced artist and the school’s art teacher.
Learners will design and create a vibrant mosaic mural inspired by the history of Llandudno railway station and the railway. The final artwork will be installed at Llandudno railway station, becoming a lasting symbol of creativity, inclusion, and local heritage for both the community and visitors.
The project will culminate in a public launch event, celebrating the young artists’ achievements and marking Railway 200, the national bicentenary of the railways.
| Aims and Objectives |
1. To celebrate the heritage of Llandudno railway station and the railway through community-led art.
- Research and interpret 200 years of railway history and Llandudno railway station’s role in local life.
- Interpret this heritage into a vibrant, accessible mosaic artwork.
- Install the artwork at Llandudno railway station to engage passengers and local residents with the town’s rail story.
2. To promote inclusion and creativity among learners with additional needs.
- Provide 12 weekly art sessions tailored to learners’ abilities, facilitated by an artist, teacher, and personal assistants.
- Encourage self-expression and sensory engagement through the use of colour, texture, and materials.
- Build learners’ confidence and social interaction through teamwork and creative collaboration.
3. To strengthen community wellbeing and connection to place.
- Enhance Llandudno Station with a lasting, community-created artwork that promotes pride in the community of Llandudno.
- Bring together educational, cultural, and transport partners in a shared celebration of art and history.
- Promote awareness of Railway 200 and the value of community engagement in the rail network.
| Partners |
- Ysgol y Gogarth – their students will be participating and creating the artworks. Their teaching assistants and art teacher will facilitate weekly sessions.
- Mazin Mosaics – owner Mel Roberts will lead the design and creative direction of the mosaic, working closely with learners and school staff.
- Transport for Wales – supports and funds the project through their Community Engagement Fund and as part of the Railway 200 celebrations.
| Delivery |
Expected outcomes:
- 20 ALN learners participate in inclusive, creative workshops.
- Increased confidence, socialisation, and creative expression among participants.
- Installation of a permanent, colourful mosaic mural at Llandudno railway station.
- Greater community engagement with local rail heritage.
- Strengthened partnership between education, art, and the transport sector.