I'r Gymraeg, cliciwch yma

History

Oriel Q was 20 years old in 2017 and below is an account of our rich history.

As part of the group Taf and Cleddau Community Arts, we started holding exhibitions in the Bloomfield Community Centre in 1987 and, from 1989, in the annexe of the Queen's Hall.

When the Hall was developed in 1994, we began to use the top floor to show exhibitions, improving the lighting and the walls to make the gallery which has since hosted over 100 monthly exhibitions. This was all done on a voluntary basis.

In 2004, The Arts Council made the Queen's Hall Gallery a revenue funded client, and Lynne Crompton was employed to be the manager and curator.

Unfortunately, with cuts in The Arts Council of Wales budget, revenue funding was withdrawn in 2007.

A lottery grant was awarded for three years to carry on the basic activities. Since 2010 we have had to apply for Lottery Funding year on year. Each round has become increasingly difficult due to the continued pressure and cuts placed on the Arts Council of Wales and unfortunately, the gallery was unsuccessful in it’s 2019 bid for funding. 

We are now volunteer led with a great group of Professionals and Artists whose job it is to make the Gallery sustainable for the future and retain this independant Art Gallery for the whole community in South West Wales, a far reaching vision for the Arts and opportunities for All kinds of Artists to utilise this fabulous Art Space and Gallery.

The Gallery has now moved from Queen’s Hall.

New applications for funding will be made in 2020 to secure our abilities to provide the vibrant programme of exhibitions, events and workshops we have re established.

If you are in a position to offer sponsorship or some financial support, please contact Harriet Addyman on Mobile 07917292774

Mission

Our mission at Oriel Q Gallery is to:

  • be a flagship for the Visual and Applied Arts in West Wales;

  • provide a stimulating programme of contemporary exhibitions and related talks;

  • serve the local and national artistic community;

  • provide a platform and source of income for artists;

  • develop an educational policy that will support teachers in meeting the curriculum objectives, in delivering the Literacy and Numeracy Framework and enhance pupils' knowledge and experience of art in and of Wales;

  • to make the gallery, its services and facilities accessible to all;

  • to pursue policies of non-discrimination in all its activities.

Current activity

Using our exhibition space on-site, Oriel Q provides a stimulating series of exhibitions involving artists at different stages of their life and careers, who work in a range of processes and media. This is supported by an educational program that encourages pupils from primary school through to 6th Form and art students to engage with the gallery. 

There are exhibitions planned for 2020/21 which will show in the Gallery.

We have a small space in the main gallery which showcases ceramics, sculptures, jewellery and books; perfect for a last minute birthday present!

Education

Artists' talks and lectures regularly take place around the exhibitions.

Schools and groups of all ages are welcome to request talks and demonstrations connected with the exhibitions.

Please contact us if you are interested in giving a talk or holding a workshop at Oriel Q Gallery.
If you would like to become a sponsor, please contact Harriet Addyman to discuss the mutual benefits.