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Love Stories to Nature – We Gathered Your Earths, Clays and Rocks!

SPAN was thrilled to welcome participants to Rhiannon Rees’s Gentle Painting Project, part of our 2024 Love Stories to Nature programme. As our latest Love Stories to Nature commission, artist Rhiannon Rees led a gentle, site-responsive painting project that invited people from across Pembrokeshire to contribute dry soil, rocks, and pebbles—materials gathered from the land they call home. Rhiannon’s practice blends her passion for sustainable painting techniques with a deep-rooted connection to her Welsh heritage. With one side of her family having once mined the Welsh land and the other having farmed it, her work with natural pigments speaks directly to this ancestry. She forages industrial waste and natural materials from across Wales, transforming them into delicate paints that speak of place and memory. The Gentle Painting Project became a beautiful act of collective mapping, inviting Pembrokeshire communities to explore and express the subtle, earthy colours of their landscape. Through this process, Rhiannon shared a quieter, more mindful approach to painting—one that honours the land and deepens our connection to

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Songlines- Love Stories to Nature

As part of the Love Stories to Nature commission series, Songlines invited the community to engage with the Pembrokeshire shoreline in a unique and deeply personal way. Rooted in the ancient tradition of mapping stories through land, Songlines asked participants to write their own stories—messages of connection, memory, love, and longing—into the sands of our wild coastline. Guided by the idea that the landscape holds our histories and emotional imprints, local residents and artists came together to create ephemeral artworks using only what nature offered: sand, stones, shells, seaweed, and sunlight. From bold spirals and sweeping lines to carefully etched words and delicate symbols, each creation was a moment in time—a fleeting love letter to the land. Some drew inspiration from childhood memories of the sea, others honoured ancestors, wildlife, or elements of the natural world that ground and sustain them. The Pembrokeshire beaches became a living gallery for a day—no walls, no roof, just the rhythm of the tide marking time as the works slowly faded back into the earth. At its heart, Songlines celebrated both the intimacy and impermanence of our relationship with nature. It reminded us that storytelling doesn’t always need permanence to be powerful. Sometimes, it’s

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Seed to Flight – A Love Story to Nature in Print

In the heart of West Wales, the land itself speaks—a rich, loamy language of seed, soil, rain, and wind. In 2023, as part of SPAN Arts’ Love Stories to Nature commissions, this deep-rooted connection to the natural world found expression through Seed to Flight, a community-centred creative project that fused tactile craft with ecological reverence. Though I wasn’t present for its making, the legacy of Seed to Flight lives on in the vibrant images and community spirit it captured. Led by Sarah Sharpe and Louise Carey, the project invited participants of all ages and backgrounds to explore the ancient art of printmaking. But instead of paper, their canvas was cloth—a soft, flowing surface that seems to whisper with movement, memory, and transformation. The process itself became a kind of ritual: hands immersed in ink, leaves and feathers pressed into fabric, stories shared between sips of tea. Inspired by the natural environment—its textures, shapes, and cycles—participants printed organic patterns onto cloth, each imprint a small homage to the land that sustains us. This is what Love Stories to Nature is all about. It’s not just about making art; it’s about making meaning. It’s about allowing our creativity to take root, to

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Arty Party a Creative Meet-Up at SPAN Arts: Let’s Connect, Collaborate & Celebrate

Join us on 28th May for a relaxed and welcoming evening at SPAN Arts, as we gather local artists, creatives, and freelancers for a chance to connect, share ideas, and spark future collaborations. Whether you’re a maker, performer, designer, writer, or simply someone passionate about the creative arts, this is your opportunity to find out what’s happening behind the scenes at SPAN – and how you can be part of it. Date:  28th May 2025 Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM Location: SPAN Arts, Narberth Expect drinks, snacks, and good company as we ease into the new season together. You’ll also get a sneak peek at some of SPAN’s upcoming projects and find out how to get involved in shaping the creative year ahead. Whether you’re looking to grow your network, start something new, or just fancy an inspiring evening with likeminded folks – we’d love to see you there.

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Love Stories to Nature Commission – Voice of the River by Katie Jones

Voice of the River By Katie Jones Voice of the River is a poetic and powerful project by Katie Jones, commissioned as part of SPAN Arts’ Love Stories to Nature series. Rooted in the winding waters of the Eastern Cleddau in Pembrokeshire, the work explores how storytelling can inspire deeper care and connection with the natural world – especially our precious rivers and waterways.   Blending myth, memory, and local voices, Katie invited communities to gather along the banks of the Eastern Cleddau through a series of immersive workshops. These gatherings became moments of shared reflection and creativity, weaving together stories that speak to both the beauty of the river and the urgency of its protection. Voice of the River reminds us that our landscapes hold stories – ancient, personal, and imagined – and that by listening, sharing, and creating together, we can shape a more connected and sustainable future. Written by Katie Jones  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEDFqk4JyeM&t=330s

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Swyn – Outdoor Circus at Colby Woodland Gardens

Swyn: A Spellbinding Outdoor Circus and Dance Show Celebrating Women, Ritual and Rural Life Comes to Pembrokeshire this Summer   BOOK NOW This August, SPAN Arts is proud to present Swyn, a breathtaking new outdoor performance from Collective Flight Syrcas, staged in the heart of the lush and tranquil Colby Woodland Gardens. Surrounded by towering trees, birdsong, and the magic of the Pembrokeshire landscape, this unforgettable show invites audiences to pause, gather, and connect. Event Details: Location: The Meadow, Colby Woodland Gardens, Pembrokeshire Date: Saturday 2nd August 2025 Times: Performance 1 – 1pm | Performance 2 – 4pm (each approx. 45 minutes) Tickets: Pay What You Can – starting at £5   For ticket holders who need access support to attend, we offer a free ticket for their companion, carer or personal assistant. Contact 01834 869323 to book your carers ticket. Swyn (the Welsh word for “spell” or “charm”) is an atmospheric, multi-sensory experience that honours the women and the work that came before us. Through a powerful fusion of contemporary circus, acrobatic dance, bilingual storytelling, and original song, this performance evokes themes of memory, ancestry, and belonging. The show is performed on an outdoor aerial rig, surrounded by symbolic

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Love Stories to Nature Commission – Mothers of Nature

The Mothers of Nature By Hannah Darby, Meg Haines, Emma Stevens This act was created through the SPAN ‘Love Stories to Nature’ commission in 2023. The Mothers of Nature is a walkabout show, with a mixture of physical acrobatic movement, dance and moments of interactions with audience members. The characters encourage onlookers to engage with the nature around them, collecting ‘words of wisdom’ and finding moments of awe in the small things, these mothers are here to share their love for nature. Using a bespoke piece of equipment, fabricated by Jo Adkins, in the style of a cockle rake and some fishing ropes. The ropes and bar are manipulated together to create a platform, used to lift, spin and balance each other whilst conjuring imagery to elevate the stories. Credits :  Film / Photography – Heather Birnie  Costume  –  Emily Redsell Cockle rake – Jo Adkins https://youtu.be/fb0bRZuDKW8

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Narberth A Cappella Voice Concert

Get ready to be swept away by the enchanting melodies and captivating harmonies at the Narberth A Cappella Voice 2024 Concert. Set to take place on Saturday, March 2nd, at The Queen’s Hall, this exclusive event promises an evening of extraordinary performances and soul-stirring song. Being Wales only a cappella festival, the concert boasts a diverse line-up of artists and genres, ensuring there’s something to delight every musical palate. From the haunting melodies of Ar ôl Tri to the mesmerizing storytelling of Stacey Blythe & Phil Okwedy, and the harmonious sounds of The Inner Voices, attendees are in for a treat. Ar ôl Tri, the award-winning ensemble from Cardigan, has garnered acclaim at the National Eisteddfod and beyond, captivating audiences with their stirring performances rooted in Welsh tradition. Phil Okwedy, a Welsh-Nigerian storyteller, joins forces with Stacey Blythe to weave tales of heritage and memory in their performance, “Matriarchy,” supported by an Arts Council Wales grant. The Inner Voices, a vocal harmony a cappella group from Cardiff, promise a polished yet raw experience that showcases the beauty of the human voice like never before. From pop hits to emotional ballads and folk tunes, the concert guarantees an unforgettable musical journey

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Creative Connections – Art workshops for Young Carers

In February half term there will be three days of creative arts sessions with Bill Taylor-Beales and Kelly Marie Howlett. They will happen: Tuesday 13th FebruaryThursday 15th FebruaryFriday 16th February From: 11am – 4pm Sessions are completely free and there will be drinks, snacks, lunch and a chill-out area for you to use. If you need transport to help get you here, just let us know. We understand there may be things that make it difficult to come along to a session. Please let us know if there is anything else that we can do to make this easier for you. It will be great to have you along to every workshop, but know this might not be possible – just come along as much as you are able to 😊 Email or call Bethan on 01834 869323 or info@span-arts.org.uk if you plan to come, have any questions, or you would like to chat about anything beforehand .They will be in Narberth, at this address – SPAN Arts, Town Moor, Narberth, Pembrokeshire SA67 7AG. https://www.youtube.com/embed/5TLq5eYr1Ss

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Creative Curiosity – A series of new & exciting creative workshops!

We are offering the following free workshops to the people of North Pembrokeshire: Visual Art for Carers 18+ Digital Art for Young People age 11-17 Textiles for people over 50 Visual Art for Carers Are you caring for a friend or family member? Paid or unpaid? Join artists Di Ford and Fran Evans to learn the art of collaging in a fun environment, experimenting with various collage techniques, colour, and composition. Enjoy free refreshments, chat, and explore new skills at your own pace in these relaxed sessions. No prior experience or equipment needed. If you need help with transport contact us on 01834 869323 Drop in on any of the dates and venues below: Newport Memorial Hall, SA42 0TF Tuesday 30th January & 13rd February 10am – 1pm Canolfan Hermon, SA36 0DT  (Includes lunch as part of Share and Care) Tuesday 6th February & 20th February 5th & 19th March from  11am – 2pm Canolfan Llwynihirion Brynberian, SA41 3TY Tuesday 27 February & 12 March  from  10am – 1pm Digital Art for Young People age 11-17 Unleash your creativity! Join artists Gemma Green-Hope and Hannah Rounding to craft your animations using iPads. Dive into digital drawing programs, create visual stories,

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SPAN Arts End of Year Highlights

As 2023 draws to a close, we wanted to take this opportunity to look back at the brilliant year we have had at SPAN. We want to say an extra special thank you to all our volunteers, funders and each and every person who has come along to one of our events, your continued support means so much to us! The first quarter of the year kick started off with a variety of workshops, performances and projects including: Co-creating with young people in Ysgol Preseli Hosting a hi-hop, writing workshop with Fio for their production of House of Jollof Partnering with Milford Haven Port Authority to develop artist-led Health and Safety video with artist Gemma Green-Hope Sign and Share sessions facilitated by artist Pip Lewis Narberth A Capella Voice Festival 2023 Wales' only a cappella festival kicked started with a singing feast. The Saturday concert showcased diverse genre performances, ensuring something for everyone. The impressive triple-bill included award-winning quartet 4 in a Bar, the exceptional Lviv soprano Khrystyna Makar, and the duo Camilo Menjura & Molara, blending Latin American grooves with choral music. Along with the feast and concert a variety of workshops took place over the weekend and the event
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Call out for performers!

Are you a theatre lover who would like to try your hand at performing? Or would you like to read through scripts and help us decide our next performance? Theatr Soffa will return in January 2024 and meet online on Thursday evenings. If you are interested in joining our community company please contact Bethan by emailing info@span-arts.org.uk
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Callout for script writers!

Theatre Sofa returns in 2024! Are you a script writer of a short play that has never been performed or needs to be developed? SPAN Arts is looking for a new piece for Theatr Soffa, our online community theatre company. We are now accepting submissions of scripts which:- • reads for 15-30 minutes • with multiple characters • not previously produced The writer will receive a £100 fee for taking part in an online readthrough and discussion session and as an equivalent to performance rights. Send your scripts to Bethan Morgan via info@span-arts.org.uk Deadline: January 19th 2024. For more information contact Bethan via info@span-arts.org.uk
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Creative Connections

Being a carer is a demanding and selfless role that often leaves little time for self-care and personal growth. However, recognizing the importance of nurturing one’s creative spirit and building a supportive community, the Creative Connections programme is here to offer a unique opportunity for carers to explore new skills, forge meaningful connections, and take a moment for themselves. The Creative Connections Programme Free Weekly Creative Sessions: Starting from January and continuing through March 2024, these eight weekly sessions promise a rejuvenating experience for carers. Whether you care for a family member, a friend, or work professionally as a carer, these sessions are designed with you in mind.  Music with Holly Robinson – Thurs Feb 1st & Thurs Feb 8th – 10am – 12.30pm Come and join experienced music therapist Holly Robinson for workshop sessions exploring music for wellbeing. Sessions will include activities such as listening to music, playing instruments, and creating playlists. No need to have had any previous experience, but great if you do. Textiles with Menna Buss – Thurs Feb 22nd & Thurs Feb 29th – 10am – 12.30pm Try out different techniques and discover creative possibilities with textiles in this relaxed and supportive environment. All levels

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Creative Connections Artist Call-Out

Are you an experienced creative workshop facilitator? Are you experienced in working with carers, young carers, or both? SPAN Arts is looking for arts workshop facilitators working in different mediums, from music to printmaking, movement to photography, to run sessions as part of our Creative Connections programme running creative sessions for carers in Narberth, Pembrokeshire, across February and March 2024. Please send a cover letter up to 1 side of A4 (400 words) describing your experience of this type of work along with a copy of your CV to info@span-arts.org.uk by 5pm Friday 8th December. Alternatively, you can send a 5-minute audio or video recording that covers the same information if that is more accessible. All applicants will need to have up to date DBS checks. We aim to contact all applicants of decisions by Monday 18th December. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at the above email address or on 01834 869323 with any questions.

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Immerse Yourself in the Enchantment of Our Annual Advent Concert!

The festive season is just around the corner, and what better way to embrace its spirit than by joining us for our highly anticipated annual Advent Concert! We are delighted to unveil the incredible lineup for this year's event, featuring the exceptional talents of the renowned soprano, Jessica Robinson, and the esteemed Whitland Male Voice Choir. Jessica Robinson: A Soprano Extraordinaire Hailing from the picturesque landscapes of Pembrokeshire, Jessica Robinson is set to grace our stage with her mesmerizing voice. A distinguished graduate of the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Jessica boasts an illustrious career, adorned with numerous awards and accolades. Her journey has been punctuated by stellar performances with esteemed institutions like the CBSO, leaving audiences spellbound at iconic venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and the Wales Millennium Centre. Notably, she had the honor of performing for HRH The Prince of Wales at the prestigious Buckingham Palace. Jessica's diverse repertoire and unmatched artistry promise to enrapture the audience and create an unforgettable musical experience. Whitland & District Male Voice Choir: A Legacy of Harmony Adding to the evening's grandeur, the revered Whitland & District Male Voice Choir will weave a rich tapestry of harmonies, carrying
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Welcome Wednesdays

Come and join us at our ‘Welcome Wednesday’ mornings at SPAN! Drop in anytime between 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM, every Wednesday starting from November 1st. Whether you fancy a friendly chat over a free cuppa or to explore our craft corner for a creative outlet (it's optional!), our doors are open to all. If you're bringing children along, please remember that they should be accompanied and cared for by a parent or guardian. Join us for a wonderful Wednesday filled with warmth, connection, and discovery! For more information contact Bethan via info@span-arts.org.uk
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Call Out For A Songwriter/Musician

SPAN is looking for a Songwriter/Musician, with experience of developing music with young people to create a modern music track/song. You will be working with a group of 11-18 year olds at Letterston Youth Club, Letterston Memorial Hall, Nr. Fishguard. Taking place over 4 consecutive Wednesday evenings in Jan/Feb 2024. There will be paid time for editing and a fifth Wednesday session to share the song and a video that the young people make to document the process. Fee: £1,500 (£200 per session plus £500 prep/editing time) A current DBS certificate will be required for this role. Travel expenses available. Please send us your CV and an expression of interest in written (up to 1 page) or digitally recorded form (up to 5 minutes), considering how your relevant experience would be best utilised in this project. Send your applications to info@span-arts.org.uk Closing date for applications: 17th November 2023 We will acknowledge all applications. Following the closing date, applicants will be shortlisted for eligibility by SPAN and the final decision will be made by the Young People.

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Becoming Nature by Lou Luddington

Call out now closed We are actively seeking a small number of nature lovers from a broad spectrum of the Pembrokeshire community to participate in Becoming Nature – a SPAN Arts Love Stories to Nature arts commission by local photographer and writer Lou Luddington.  Becoming Nature explores the power and meaning of our connection to the natural world, using photography, poetry and prose, to profile nine local Pembrokeshire nature lovers in a cherished place in nature. From surfers, swimmers and freedivers to naturalists, artists and gardeners, we are looking to include participants from a wide range of environments and pursuits. The aim is to capture how being in these places opens our hearts and provides a deep sense of well being that is vital to our health- nine Love Stories to Nature to share with the world.  Participants will be photographed and interviewed by Lou in a favourite local natural environment, a cherished place that provides solace, peace or joy. The location of your favourite place need not be disclosed in the final sharing.    Participation is voluntary for one half day during October or November.  You will need transport to your chosen location but travel expenses can be covered by

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Our Branch That Stopped Singing – by Billy Maxwell Taylor

Our Branch That Stopped Singing is an ambient music meditation on the continually changing soundscapes of Pembrokeshire. Through water, snow, waves, forests and the story of a blackbird friend, immerse yourself in this mindful 20-minute audiovisual experience, suitable for all ages. This installation was created by Billy Maxwell Taylor, SPAN Arts and the Pembrokeshire community who submitted audio recordings of their own Environments.
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