Earlier this year, a striking mural celebrating some of Wrexham AFC’s most iconic players was unveiled in the heart of the city
Painted on a wall at Eagles Meadow Shopping Centre by artist Liam Stokes-Massey, the mural is part of a project inspired by the club’s recent success.
It’s the latest in a growing series of bold public artworks by the talented artist. The first mural welcomed visitors to the city on Crispin Lane, followed by a portrait of fan-favourite Paul Mullin on the side of The Fat Boar in the city centre.
These murals now form part of a wider initiative to create a public art trail across Wrexham, supporting the city’s bid to become City of Culture 2029.
Eisteddfod-goers can learn more about the bid from project coordinator Morgan Thomas at Y Lle Celf on Thursday afternoon at 14:00.
Liam, known on social media as the pencilcraftsman, is leading the mural project in partnership with Tŷ Pawb.He explains, “I’m really excited to be working on something I believe our community has deserved for a long time.
“Wrecsam has always been a hub of creativity, so what better way to celebrate our heritage, history, and vibrant culture than through public art?
“It promises to be a colourful and artistic celebration that will attract both locals and visitors alike.”
More murals are planned to join those already completed. One of the newest additions is a moving tribute to a coal miner, located on Egerton Street near the main bus station, honouring Wrexham’s rich mining history.
Tŷ Pawb – a redevelopment of the former People’s Market – has been appointed as the city’s arts centre and is working closely with the Eisteddfod to deliver a vibrant programme of events at Y Lle Celf.
Y Lle Celf is the national celebration of visual art and architecture in Wales, showcasing work by some of the country’s leading artists. Visitors can admire the work of those awarded gold medals for fine art, craft, and architecture.
To learn more about the open exhibition, guided tours take place every morning at 11:00.
Throughout the week, there will be regular art workshops led by artists Emma Jayne Holmes and Ffion Pritchard. Ffion’s workshop is inspired by the work of artist Jonah Jones and includes the chance to create cyanotypes and use sketchbooks with materials provided. Emma Jayne Holmes will lead a sketching workshop, with all materials ready and waiting.
In Rhosllannerchrugog, the Stiwt theatre is preparing to celebrate its centenary in 2026. During the week, visitors can help recreate the Stiwt in different media, learn about its history, and pick up a few words of the local dialect.
There’s also a chance to hear about the new eco-friendly building for Theatr Clwyd, opening this summer, with talks from theatre staff, designer Lois Prys, and chef Bryn Williams.
On the final Saturday of the Eisteddfod, artist and lecturer Gwenllian Beynon will give a talk on the lesser-known work of Polish refugee artist Josef Herman, who lived in Ystradgynlais.
Following the talk, at 16:00, the winner of this year’s Josef Herman People’s Choice Award will be announced.
And throughout the week, there will be a musical performance by Meilir Tomos, whose innovative soundscapes blend piano, guitar, and synths with unexpected instruments like thumb piano, vintage typewriter, wine glasses, and even a tray of gravel.