Transforming Tyisha: Community-inspired murals celebrate heritage and new beginnings
A collaborative mural art project organised as part of Carmarthenshire County Council’s Transforming Tyisha initiative, has now been successfully completed by Coleg Sir Gâr art and design students.
There are two locations for the murals which include the CETMA shutters which celebrate local history and heritage and the second is opposite Home Bargains, where seven large boards have been transformed into an expansive mural incorporating patterns, symbols and narratives inspired by the local environment.
Designs and concepts have been thoughtfully chosen to reflect the identity of the people who call Tyisha home.
The industrial past is represented by coal, tin, steel and copper whilst trees symbolise the impact of industry leaving the area with an over-eager miner rushing to extract coal contrasting with the enduring presence of nature.
The train tunnel is a direct reference to the railway, posing the question of whether are we looking at the past or future, a forgotten path or a journey ahead?
A robin symbolises resilience, happiness and rebirth with the sunset and sunrise representing new beginnings.
Protestors represent the political and social movements that have shaped Tyisha making reference to the Rebecca and train riots with a message of hope for modern day movements.
The image of the hand symbolises resilience and tenderness with the clock within the hand serving as a reminder that time is always slipping through our fingers.
Images on the CEMTA shutters symbolises the deep connection between Llanelli’s industrial heritage and its strong community spirit with industrial elements that shaped the town and lives of its people and is a reminder of Llanelli’s resilience and hardworking spirit.
The unlocking heart represents change and hidden potential within the community, embracing progress for future generations.
Learners involved are studying a level three University of the Arts London accredited course at one of the college’s Carmarthenshire School of Art campuses in Pibwrlwyd, Carmarthen.
Art and design student Milly Walters said: Starting this project, I was very intrigued with how Tyisha was as a community.
“After doing lots of research, I understood the help Tyisha needed, and by doing our mural, I hope it brings light to the community. Working as a group in this project made me realise how important team work is. After gathering everyone’s ideas and concerns within Tyisha and for our mural, we produced this widely colourful, hopeful mural for the community to enjoy.”
Rebecca Sellick, lecturer in art and design at Coleg Sir Gâr’s Carmarthen School of Art said: “Students have worked very hard on this project, creating a weatherproof mural from initial ideas to final delivery and we were delighted to be asked to be part of this.
“The mural is a tribute to Tyisha’s past, present and future, celebrating the spirit of the people who continue to shape its story.”
Cllr Linda Davies Evans, Cabinet Member for Homes said: “I’m delighted that through partnership working between Carmarthenshire County Council and Coleg Sir Gâr, this project is providing students with an opportunity to showcase their artistic skills as well as providing the community of Tyisha with artwork for all to enjoy.”
