The 3 Counties Connected Community Rail Partnership has announced the ‘Hiraeth: Art, Heritage and Railways’ exhibition, which will be held at the Miners Rescue Station on February 26, 2025.
The event, which is free to attend, will run from 2pm to 4pm.
The exhibition is the result of months of collaboration, creativity, and storytelling, and has been funded by Transport for Wales.
The project, led by artist Sophia Leadill, was delivered in partnership with KIM Inspire, The Wallich, and Housing Justice.
It aims to celebrate the cultural richness of communities by bringing together art, history, and personal narratives.
The exhibition will feature a collection of artwork, oral histories, and written pieces inspired by the heritage of the railways and the lived experiences of those involved.
It forms part of Railway 200, which commemorates 200 years of the modern railway in the UK, and highlights the enduring connection between people, place, and transport.
Josie Rayworth, community rail officer for the 3 Counties Connected Community Rail Partnership, said: “This project has been an incredible journey of discovery, unearthing powerful stories and cultural connections within our communities.
“By working with such inspiring groups, we’ve created an exhibition that truly reflects the richness of our heritage – a fusion of art, storytelling and history that brings this special place to life.
“We are especially grateful to the Miners Rescue Station for their generosity in hosting this project.
“It is an honour to present the exhibition in such a historic and meaningful community space.”
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The event will offer attendees the opportunity to see the artwork, meet the artist, listen to the stories that shaped the project, and take part in a free printing workshop to create their own railway-inspired artwork.
Limited edition railway-themed products, including tote bags, will also be available for purchase, with proceeds supporting the partner organisations.
The 3 Counties Connected Community Rail Partnership covers the rail services and engages with the communities along the line of route between Chester, Shrewsbury, and Crewe via Wrexham.
It operates across the Wales and England border, covering the local authorities of Cheshire West, East & Chester, Wrexham County Borough, and Shropshire Council.
The partnership was established in April 2022, funded by Transport for Wales and Avanti West Coast, and hosted by Groundworks North Wales.
