An exhibition celebrating the people and places of Ystradgynlais has opened at The Welfare after a group of local men turned their cameras on the community around them.

Nine men from different backgrounds spent recent months exploring the town through photography, capturing everyday moments, familiar landmarks and life across the area.

The project, funded by Engage Cymru and the Arts Council of Wales, saw participants take part in walking sessions during the spring while developing their photography skills and building new friendships.

Working alongside local street photographer Math Roberts, the group documented scenes across Ystradgynlais, including the Penybryn estate and surrounding areas.

The resulting exhibition, featuring honest and striking images of the town, has been made possible thanks to support from local solicitors Peter Lynn and Partners, which has a branch in Ystradgynlais.

Participant Ceri Jones said the project had helped transform his interest in photography into a passion.

He said: “Photography has always been a quiet passion of mine, though my earlier attempts at more creative shots met with mixed success.

“Joining this group was my chance to meet like-minded people and finally take the hobby further.

“Through the sessions and a number of online courses, I've learned the mechanics of manual photography, composition, and editing.”

Ceri added that he hoped the group could continue after the success of the project.

I've enjoyed experimenting with a range of different styles, several of which feature in this exhibition,” he said.

“These days, I can't go anywhere without itching to shoot something — so if you spot me crouched low, framing a shot while my dog waits impatiently nearby, you'll know exactly what I'm up to!

“It's been a pleasure to share this experience with such fantastic company, and hope we can continue the group.”

Zoe Gealy, community and engagement manager at The Welfare, said the exhibition provided “a great snapshot of life in Ystrad”.

She said: “The participants really threw themselves into it and the resulting photographs provide a great snapshot of life in Ystrad.

“We’re currently developing a new men’s arts project for the autumn thanks to Arts Council Wales Arts Health and Wellbeing Lottery funding, and this project has been a brilliant catalyst for that. We’re really grateful to Engage Cymru and to Peter Lynn and Partners for making in possible”.

Peter Lynn said the firm was pleased to support the exhibition and recognised the importance of backing local communities.

“We have been delighted to see the impact this photography project has had on participants and are pleased to

The exhibition opened in The Welfare Ystradgynlais’ Lesser Hall on July 3 and runs until August 26.