Caerphilly County Borough Council

03/12/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 03/12/2026 09:11

A shared sense of home: Community-inspired artwork unveiled in Risca

A shared sense of home: Community-inspired artwork unveiled in Risca

Posted on : 12 Mar 2026
Olesia & Robin
A new artwork by Ukrainian artist Olesia Miftahova has been unveiled at the Ty Darran later living scheme in Risca, commissioned by Caerphilly County Borough Council on behalf of residents, to reflect the people and landscape of the local area.

Olesia fled the war in Ukraine and was welcomed to Wales by the Grayson family, who live close to Ty Darran. She and her family have since settled in nearby Crosskeys, becoming part of the community that helped inspire the piece.

The artwork was created especially for residents of the building. During early conversations, Olesia asked them what they most associate with the area, and their memories and stories became the starting point for the painting, reflecting the deep connection many residents have with the place they have called home for decades.

It was unveiled at a recent official opening event at Ty Darran, which also featured a performance by Risca Male Voice Choir. The choir's Concert Coordinator and Patrons' Administrator, Robin Grayson, also shares a personal connection to the story, as he and his wife hosted Olesia when she first arrived in Wales.

Artist Olesia Miftahova said at the event "It was such a joy to see my works displayed within the walls of this beautiful building. I'm very grateful to Caerphilly Council for inviting me to collaborate on this wonderful project."

Cllr Shayne Cook, Caerphilly Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing, said "This artwork is a wonderful reflection of the strong sense of community in Risca and the stories that connect people to this area. It's particularly meaningful that Olesia worked directly with residents to shape the piece, ensuring it represents the memories and landscape that mean so much to those who now call Ty Darran home."

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