Tŷ Pawb, or ‘everyone’s house’ for non-Welsh speakers, is exactly that; a lively and vibrant home where culture, commerce and community coexist.
The $4.5m arts centre and town market has provided Wrexham with an impressively innovative, versatile and creative space that is set to provide small traders, artists, musicians and performers with endless opportunities to showcase their trade and talents for years to come.
The two imposing art galleries are currently co-hosting the Wrexham Open, along with Undegun, until Sunday 16th December. The main gallery has been designed with state-of-the-art air conditioning so that it can host international travelling exhibitions as well as a flexible space to throw a spotlight on local amateur as well as professional artists.
The commitment of the dedicated team behind Tŷ Pawb to make the multi-million pound investment work for all the people of Wrexham Borough is evidenced by the many socially inclusive event and activities that take place in the venue each week. Many of these are offered free or at affordable rates.
Events and activities, including a free weekly classical music concert every Thursday lunchtime, are designed to draw in visitors of all ages and interests. Free informal classes for Welsh learners take place in the flexi-space on Sundays in November between 10am-12 noon and 1-3pm. An eclectic contemporary arts and entertainment programme to suit a wide variety of tastes and budgets provides the community with a richly diverse cultural hub.
From toddler dance sessions on a Thursday morning to regular comedy nights, to open mic nights every other Tuesday and a kids’ Saturday art club held in an impressive first floor studio, Tŷ Pawb has something for all ages, genders, abilities, and interests. It is a truly transformative project where culture, commerce and community coexist.
Oh, and there’s food too. As we sit in the food court on large rustic refectory style tables, tucking into authentic tasty tapas from JJ at Plât Bach (highly recommended), we reflect on those around us; folk from all walks of life. Sitting opposite is a young mum with a playful toddler, on the table next to her is a group of teenage boys studying over milkshakes, adjacent to them sits a lone elderly woman people watching over a cuppa, and at the end table is a gathering of middle-ages ladies lunching noisily opposite a gent in a suit snatching a quick bite. Across wanders a trader from one of the market stalls to order a take-away coffee.
It’s a snapshot of how this bold re-imagining of a once tired old market hall is gaining wide appeal to bring back some much-needed life and vibrancy to Wrexham town centre.
For more information on events and exhibitions, visit the website and hit the subscribe button at www.typawb.wales
You can also find Tŷ Pawb on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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