Cardiff mural celebrates 125 years of UK–Kuwait ties
The British Embassy in Kuwait and Cardiff University have announced the completion of a collaborative mural celebrating 125 years of official diplomatic relations between the United Kingdom and Kuwait.
Painted by British artist Lee Ferry, the mural is the second and final part of a public art project that began last year in Kuwait. The first murals, located at the British Embassy in Kuwait and completed in November, depict elements of UK and Kuwaiti cultures, with a focus on their shared postage and maritime history.
The newly unveiled murals are located in Trevithick Gardens, a popular green space on the Cardiff University campus. They highlight the cultural ties between the UK and Kuwait through symbols such as the Welsh dragon and daffodil alongside the Kuwaiti falcon and arfaj flower. Traditional Sadu and Celtic patterns are woven into the design, while a bee and butterfly symbolize the garden's role as a haven for biodiversity and student wellbeing.
British Ambassador to Kuwait Belinda Lewis welcomed the mural's completion as part of a series of events celebrating the 125-year milestone. 'Joint celebrations to mark 125 years of official diplomatic relations served to highlight our two countries' unique partnership and showcase the creativity and talent from the UK's four home nations,' she said.
The murals at the British Embassy in Kuwait.
'From the creation of this beautiful new mural at Wales' Cardiff University; to author/illustrator Clive McFarland's visit which offered a glimpse of Northern Ireland's vibrant literary scene; to the creation of a special 'Partnership 125' tartan combining Scottish and Kuwaiti weaving materials, patterns, colours and techniques; to the launch of a horticultural exchange programme at England's Highgrove House and Gardens, celebrations have involved every corner of the UK,' she added.
Professor Rudolf Allemann, Pro Vice-Chancellor for International at Cardiff University, praised the mural as a symbol of cultural collaboration. "This beautiful artwork at the heart of Trevithick Gardens celebrates 125 years of partnership with Kuwait. Cardiff University has a long tradition of welcoming students from Kuwait, and the mural reflects this by bringing together Kuwaiti and Celtic traditions and imagery. It symbolises the ambitions of this international partnership to create positive change and drive innovation that builds a better world for generations to come," he said.
Artist Lee Ferry, founder of Custom Artwerk, said the mural was inspired by his visit to Kuwait last year. 'It was an absolute honour to be asked to design and paint this mural. I sought to draw on my experiences visiting Kuwait last year, which allowed me to get a feel for the country, culture and its shared history with the UK. Using what I had learned about the partnership between our two countries and throwing Welsh culture in the mix, I eventually came up with a mural that brings together our respective national identities. I've loved taking on this challenge and am thrilled that I got to learn something new while adding a splash of colour to brighten up everyday life. "
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