New community Hub Project Launched for Cardigan Town
The purpose of this project is to provide a focal point for one of Wales’ most iconic arts, its poetry – the first venue of its type in Wales. A home for the rich, diverse poetry heritage that Wales possesses. A place where every member of the public can walk in and be embraced by poetry, the beauty of its form and the history and knowledge it encapsulates. A library archive would be the basis of the centre, but
letters of support from as far afield as the USA and Australia has shown the importance of an online presence.
Digitalisation of poetry work is crucial as is the
creation of online seminars and presentations. The pandemic highlighted the importance of online resources at a local level, it allowed those who would not usually be able attend workshops to access facilities at home. Online access to poetry, events, seminars, discussion groups will mean that people across the world can be involved and learn about the rich culture of Welsh literature. For such a thing
to develop it must have a focal point, a home, and since Cardigan is the home of the first National Eisteddfod it is fitting that the first Welsh Poetry Centre resides in Cardigan.
The grandeur of a 19th century chapel lends itself to such a centre. Its acoustic excellence is ideal for the spoken word and the large arch windows bathe the
building in natural light. The ground floor with its imposing organ is an inspiring setting for the library and the embracing balcony would take you on a journey through the exhibitions. The vestry is an ideal size to hold workshops and discussion groups, and the chapel house would house resident poets who would use the facility to share their craft and knowledge.
With the empty chapel being located on the High Street, it is fast becoming an eyesore. Many people who pass by everyday have some links to the chapel and are saddened by its current state. The renovation of the chapel would naturally have an extremely positive social impact. Having Wales’ first poetry centre in Cardigan would instil a sense of pride in the local people and the area would also benefit financially as a result of increased footfall associated with such a centre.
The advantage of such a centre would not be limited to the immediate vicinity, its creation would also
enhance Wales’ cultural standing on an international level.
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Links have already been established with the Museum of Literature in Dublin and the Seamus Heaney Homeplace in Bellaghy, both of which have expressed their support for the project.