…By Lola Smith for TDPel Media. The unique artwork hidden within Cardiff’s city centre is undergoing restoration this month following incidents of theft.
Previously, as pedestrians walked along The Hayes in Cardiff, they could discover stunning artwork concealed inside 11 metal bollards.
Part of a £1.5 million initiative and recognized as one of Cardiff’s “hidden gems,” these artistic bollards provided a glimpse into the captivating world of “Post Secrets.”
Created by artist Jane Edden and students from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, these bollards allowed observers to peer inside and view intricate pieces of art.
Regrettably, only eight bollards remained intact, as two were stolen and one was vandalized earlier this year in March.
However, the artwork is now scheduled for restoration in June. St David’s, in collaboration with the restoration program, will remove all bollard tops.
Each bollard will then be replaced and meticulously restored to their original splendor.
The project is estimated to take up to six weeks to complete and will involve returning the original artwork to its designated location in The Hayes.
Additionally, a new bespoke informational bollard will be installed.
Artist Jane Edden expressed her delight, stating, “It is lovely for me as an artist that the ‘Post Secret’ bollards have been so appreciated and enjoyed by the people of Cardiff.
I’m looking forward to providing a brand new bollard top with information about the project so that visitors and locals can learn more about the hidden artworks, and to restoring the original ‘Post Secret’ bollards so that they can be appreciated for years to come.”
Intricate Artwork Inside Metal Bollards
Since 2010, passersby have been treated to small monochrome worlds featuring black and white characters within the bollards.
The installation cost £30,000 and was created by Jane Edden, showcasing drawings of students from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.
Helen Morgan, Centre Director at St David’s Dewi Sant, expressed her enthusiasm for the restoration project, stating, “It’s a pleasure to work alongside Jane to restore these secret treasures of the city, and we’re excited that the rejuvenation project will allow the artworks to be discovered by even more locals and visitors.
Public art is created to be enjoyed, and we’re looking forward to unveiling the bollards in time for summer.”
Anticipated Return of Cardiff’s Hidden Art Gems
With the restoration process in motion, Cardiff’s unique and captivating hidden artworks will soon be back on display for residents and visitors to enjoy.
The restoration project aims to bring new life to the bollards, ensuring that these artistic treasures can continue to be appreciated for years to come.
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