Local artists transform ukuleles for music charity

A NUMBER of leading Welsh artists have come together to transform ukuleles into stunning works of art for a Welsh music charity.

Acclaimed artists from Cardiff such as Super Furry Animals collaborator Pete Fowler and graffiti artist Lloyd Roberts have created unique ukuleles to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Community Music Wales and raise funds as part of the Pimp My Uke challenge.

More than 15 Welsh artists from across Wales are helping Community Music Wales to celebrate its 25th anniversary by particpating in the challenge.

As part of the Pimp My Uke project each artist will receive a blank ukulele from Community Music Wales which they will paint in their own unique style.

When finished, the ukuleles will be displayed in a gallery for a short time before being auctioned off to the public.

This will help to raise funds for future projects and the charity’s ongoing activities.

The charity will also be celebrating 25 years of participatory arts delivery with a charity gig at the Tramshed in Cardiff on November 9 with a gala event called 25 and Live.

Hannah Jenkins, director of Community Music Wales, said: “We want to make people aware that we’re still here and doing great work across Wales, and have been doing so for 25 years.

“While at our core we are a music charity, we have also been big supporters of all types of community art over the past 25 years.

“We wanted to shine a light on some of the hugely talented artists in Wales, but also offer a unique piece of art that people can own and play.

“Through doing this we are also hoping to give something back to the people and communities who have supported us over the past 25 years.”

A handful of ukuleles have been completed so far and each one showcases the artist’s individual skill and style, ranging from steampunk through to typography and hyper realism.

The charity is expecting the rest of the ukuleles to be completed by the end of this month, at which point details will be released for the exhibition and following auction.

For more information, visit www. communitymusicwales.co.uk