A new sculpture which symbolises Flat Holm and aims to link people on the mainland with the island as part of an arts project, has been installed on Cardiff Bay Barrage, just south of the Scott Memorial.
The sculpture is located halfway along the Barrage and its scenic location offers a point of interest for visitors strolling past, where they can see Flat Holm in the distance. Other art associated with this project includes poems, monologues, soundscapes from the island, short films and podcasts, which the public can experience on a website.
"Flat Holm – A Walk Through Time" is transforming the island thanks to a £1.8maward from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, which makes part of a £2.8 million investment to rejuvenate the island. Additional funding includes capital investment from Cardiff Council and contributions including staff resources from partner organisations such as RSPB Cymru and the Flat Holm Society. This investment supports the repair and renovation of historic buildings, habitat improvements for wildlife, and various community and visitor engagement activities, including the new sculpture. Visitors can explore the island's self-guided tour, which highlights its significant past, including the former cholera hospital and thriving wildlife.
The project includes:
- extensive renovation of the Grade II-listed
Fog Horn station.
- stabilisation of the cholera hospital and
laundry buildings.
- repairs to the island’s Victorian water
catchment system.
- renovation of the WWII searchlight station to
provide a ‘seascape hide’ – a quiet place for visitors to watch the sea,
ships, and birds.
- improved habitats for the island’s colony of lesser
black-backed gulls and maritime flora.
- improved on-site interpretation to take visitors on a journey through the history of the island.
A Cardiff Council spokesperson said, “The unveiling of this sculpture marks a celebration of Cardiff and Flat Holm’s rich history. The island is just over four miles into the Bristol Channel but it has so many connections to the mainland and we want people to visit the island and explore our shared history.
“Flat Holm is a sanctuary for protected species of wildlife and plant life, and now has a body of engaging art and digital content associated with this project. Its unique blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue and new art content makes it a great destination for visitors, families, history enthusiasts, and art and nature lovers.”
For more information about the
"Flat Holm – A Walk Through Time" project and to view the creative
arts content that accompanies the sculpture, please visit: http://art.flatholmisland.com/