An ambitious new art exhibition has opened in Llandrindod Wells, bringing work from Wales and beyond to the heart of Mid Wales.

The Here Be Dragons Central Wales Open Art Exhibition, which launched on Thursday, July 10, is the first event of its kind organised by the Central Wales Arts Collective – and is already being described as the beginning of an exciting new annual tradition.

Held at the historic Auto Palace building, the exhibition showcases a wide range of work including sculpture, painting and printmaking, with artists represented from as far afield as China, alongside pieces by local creatives.

Powys County Council leader Cllr Jake Berriman formally opened the event and praised the organisers for bringing high-quality art to the region. He also helped secure the venue for the exhibition.

The private view was well attended, with artists, arts professionals, sponsors, and supporters gathering to celebrate the launch. Visitors praised both the variety of work on display and the vibrant atmosphere.

One of the aims of the exhibition, organisers said, is to offer local people access to the kind of contemporary art they might otherwise only encounter by travelling to larger cities.

The exhibition features prize categories for different age groups. This year’s winners were Nye Elliott (under 16), Meg Shuker (16–24), and Gerallt Tawy (over 24), with judging carried out by Welsh artist Meinir Mathias, Aberystwyth Arts Centre curator Ffion Rhys, and Professor Andre Stitt.

Reflecting after winning the over-24s category, Gerallt said: "I was a great and unexpected surprise, especially at such a beautiful gallery space and curated exhibition.”

Here Be Dragons runs at Auto Palace from Llandrindod Wells from 10am to 7pm until Sunday, July 27.

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