Glyndwr Art Students To Make 2013 Welsh National Eisteddfod Crown

A team of art students from Glyndŵr University are helping to design and make the crown for the 2013 Welsh National Eisteddfod under the guidance of a master craftsman.

Freelance artist Andrew Coomber has sought the help of students from the North Wales School of Art and Design after being commissioned to complete the project by the Denbighshire and Flintshire branches of the Farmers’ Union of Wales, who are also funding the crown.

The new task follows on from the success of a design and build project which saw students create a ceremonial mace when Glyndŵr University was formed in 2008.

The students are working on a placement basis as part of their final year studies in Applied Arts.

Three students – Morven Browne, Sarah Jones and Jess Bryant – are currently working on the Crown with Andrew on a summer placement. They will be joined by several more when construction of the crown begins in November.

Andrew said: “The outstanding success of the 2008 project for students, the university and sponsors the Drapers Company encouraged the idea that the Denbigh 2013 crown should be run as a similar educational project. It’s a really exciting, significant project to be working on and I’m looking forward to getting started.”

“It will be inspired by the colour and imagery of the agricultural Vale of Clwyd and Moel Famau and will reflect lyrical qualities in harmony with modern technology and materials.

Stuart Cunningham, academic leader for creative industries, media and performance, said: “We are delighted that Andrew has chosen Glyndŵr University students to work with him on such a prestigious project. The university is always keen to provide students with the opportunity to work on live projects and this is another example of that.

“Andrew is a hugely experienced craftsman and I’m sure that the knowledge and experience which he will pass on to the students will be of tremendous benefit to them.”

Above is a picture of the crown used in the 2011 National Eisteddfod in Wrexham.