David Mackie, from Roath, Cardiff, has been appointed to deliver the first piece of public art to be created at Plasdŵr.
He will create a unique piece of public art for the entrance of the Gateway Linear Park, which will lead to residential areas, schools and commercial centres across the development.
The initial concept for the piece focuses on the history of Penrhys Pilgrimage Way, which starts at Llandaff Cathedral and leads to the shrine of Mary at Penrhys.
The art piece will feature 12 wildflowers sculpted into the paving along the route, starting at the beginning of the park. The wildflowers, which are referred to by their Welsh names, have been named in Mary’s honour and are well known in local ecclesiastical history.
This is just the first piece in Plasdŵr’s wider public art strategy, which includes design ideas to inspire every element of the community – from public art installations and historic plaques to lampposts and benches. Each piece of public art will be considered in line with the community, the individual local artists and the local council to ensure each piece aligns with the vision of Plasdŵr.
An artist for almost 30 years, David has vast experience working with the local community and commissioning pieces in and around Cardiff, with some of his most famous work along the Taf embankment in Grangetown and on Tyndall St in Cardiff. The piece at the Gateway Linear Park will be his latest commission.
The COVID-19 lockdowns have made people more interested in their surroundings and appreciative of what’s around them, and raising awareness of local biodiversity through art is a passion of David’s.
Public art at Plasdŵr will help add to the sense of place we’re creating at the development, while also bringing individual character to each of our five neighbourhoods.
Art and design at Plasdŵr will not only create an attractive place to live and to visit, but it will also champion the talented local artists and the history of the local area.
The initial concepts of the design have been finalised, with the detail of the design being finalised over the next few months.