Husb and I had a great visit to the little village of Ynyshir in the Rhondda Valley last Saturday. First we visited the Workers Gallery, to catch the end of the drawing workshop by internationally renowned documentary photographer David Hurn. Then we adjourned to the next street, to an old converted chapel, to listen to David in conversation with the legendary Welsh actor, Michael Sheen. I scribbled them (here).
But I was gobsmacked to see that the chapel has been converted into a museum of organs. The Wurlitzer types that used to be played in cinemas and dance halls. You know the sort, they rise up majestically from a hole in the stage and they’re beautifully designed and built. Not only is tiny little Ynyshir the home of the most excellent Workers Gallery, it also hosts Paul Kirner’s Music Palace. It’s incredible inside and the organs on display are fantastic.
Ynyshir is a little cultural gem nestling in the steep valleys north of Cardiff. Don’t bother with the capital, this is where culture is thriving. Oh and by the way, I’m doing an artist in residence day on September 15th at The Workers.
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