Concrete Wall Becomes Nature-Inspired Mural at Brynau Farm Thanks to Talented Student Artist
A once unremarkable concrete wall at Woodland Trust’s Brynau Farm in Neath has been transformed into a vibrant and inspiring piece of art, thanks to Ellie Jones, a student of Illustration at the Swansea College of Art, Ҵý (UWTSD).
The mural, a stunning tribute to the landscape and wildlife of Brynau Farm, was the result of a creative partnership between the Woodland Trust and Swansea College of Art. The project stemmed from planning for the “Spirit of Place” at Brynau, part of the Trust’s broader strategy to engage and inspire young people in its mission to protect and restore the natural world.
A live brief was issued to Swansea College of Art students, inviting them to respond creatively to the vision for Brynau. The response was overwhelming, with an array of exceptional proposals submitted. A diverse panel, including Woodland Trust staff, volunteers, members of the youth forum, and external youth representatives, assessed each submission carefully. Ellie’s nature-infused design stood out for its artistic quality and deep connection to the landscape, earning her the winning spot.
Ellie Jones, the artist behind the mural, shared:
“My creative work is heavily inspired by nature, wellbeing, and mindfulness. I hope to inspire others to enjoy the little moments in life as much as I do. The mural captures the natural beauty of Brynau Farm. It is a beautiful, peaceful landscape, a perfect place to be at one with nature and appreciate the calm that the natural world provides us. The wildlife thrives in Brynau, from the bluebells to the resident Barn Owl, and I really wanted to capture these key elements within the mural. I hope this mural serves as a reminder to enjoy the nature that surrounds us and just take a moment for yourself.”
Iwan Vaughan, Lecturer in BA Illustration at Swansea College of Art UWTSD, added:
“It’s been a real privilege to partner with Coed Cadw, the Woodland Trust in Wales. Giving our students the opportunity to tackle a live, professional brief has not only pushed their creative practice but also connected them with an important environmental cause. It’s been fantastic to see them channel their talents into work that can truly make a difference.”
Sophie Thomas, Woodland Trust said: “This project has been a shining example of how creativity and conservation can come together to inspire change. We’re incredibly proud to support young people like Ellie who bring their passion and vision into public spaces. The mural at Brynau is not only beautiful, but also a visual reminder of our collective responsibility to protect and cherish the natural world.”
The mural now stands as a visual celebration of the Brynau landscape and a symbol of the power of art to connect people with nature and wellbeing.
The mural is now on public view at Brynau Farm. For more information, visit
Further Information
Rebecca Davies
Executive Press and Media Relations Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: rebecca.davies@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07384 467071