Welsh and global artists to create bespoke pieces for Theatr Clwyd redevelopment

Theatr Clwyd has revealed the line-up of eight acclaimed artists who will create bespoke public artworks for its major redevelopment.

The pieces, which range from ceramics to sculptures, will be integral to the redesigned space. They celebrate the theatre’s history, its community, and its future.

The commissioned artists include a mix of established and emerging talents from Wales and beyond.

Among them are award-winning Welsh sculptor Manon Awst; writer and documentary-maker Jude Rogers, collaborating with artist and archivist Catrin James; BAFTA winner Huw Davies; Colin Davies of Sum Place, known for large-scale visual art; leading ceramicist Frances Priest; textile designer Sauda Imam; and muralist Ivan Kashdan.

Each artist is creating site-specific works, developed through research into the Mold-based theatre’s archives, local surroundings, and community engagement.

These creations will form a vibrant, playful, and colourful addition to the redeveloped Grade II-listed building. The building is set to reopen in 2025.

Speaking about the project, Theatr Clwyd’s Executive Director, Liam Evans-Ford, said:
“A creative building certainly needs artists involved in the design and delivery.”

“Alongside world-class architects and design teams, it is exciting to have a mix of Welsh and international artists working on our public art commissions.”

“The context of their work will centre around playfulness, locality, communities, and colour.”

“I get excited every time each of them presents their next stage of design and can’t wait to share them with the public on opening the building in 2025.”

The commissions are funded by the Arts Council of Wales and were selected from more than 120 applications submitted during an open call.

The public will have the opportunity to learn more about the artworks and their creators on Theatr Clwyd’s website, with further details to be unveiled in the new year.

Redevelopment

Theatr Clwyd, Wales’ largest producing theatre, is undergoing a significant redevelopment to modernise its 46-year-old Grade II-listed building.

The project aims to enhance visitor experiences with a new front extension, first-floor terrace, and a restaurant offering panoramic views.

It was fantastic to have a tour of @ClwydTweets and emotional to see the theatre reinstated for the panto. 180 craftsman and builders onsite working to get it finished by June 2025. It will be so much more …. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/yYl5AV90jE

— Carolyn Thomas MS / AS (@CThomasMS) November 30, 2024

A ground-floor café and shop will cater to diverse audiences, while indoor and outdoor play areas will provide family-friendly spaces.

The redevelopment also includes a dedicated youth hub for rehearsals and learning, and a specialised arts, health, and wellbeing suite with a sensory garden to support community programmes.

Sustainability is central to the project, with plans for a gas-free building featuring rainwater harvesting for toilets, a green living wall, air source heat pumps, and infrastructure for solar photovoltaic cells across 1,000m² of roof space.

These initiatives aim to position Theatr Clwyd as one of the UK’s first carbon-zero cultural venues.

The redevelopment is supported by the Welsh Government, Flintshire County Council, and the Arts Council of Wales.

For more information, visit Theatr Clwyd’s website.