As part of an Evening Leader investigation, calls have been made for the Wrexham area to receive funding to help promote its 'stunted' art scene.

Online reader, Jan Parrish from Garden Village, contacted the Evening Leader saying that Wrexham is currently viewed as a 'Hick town', with little or no style or depth'.

But, she claims, Wrexham has the potential to stand 'head and shoulders' above other towns and cities in the art world.

"Wrexham has one of the best art colleges in the UK producing first class creatives from all over the world, who in turn uphold the UK design industry, bravely underpinning forward thinking producing art across a broad spectrum, from digital animation to fine art," Jan wrote in an email to digitalnews@nwn.co.uk

"Unfortunately the current system of promoting the arts in Wrexham is stunted.

"What is needed is enthusiastic, experienced, dynamic, result orientated organisations that can move and shape the towns culture to produce an art scene, that will attract pride, respect and a avant-garde philosophy.

"When I speak of culture in this town, I refer to the broad spectrum, from the excellent local band scene, dance scene and theatre, to classical orchestral music and opera, and of course a wide variety of art in terms of painting to sculpture, animation to ceramics.

"Wrexham has all this and more at its finger tips.

"NEWI Art College should be the first port of call for those in power, as it is holds a hub of creative professionals that could assist with ideas for Wrexham's Art Scene.

"Why not galleries, animation festivals, sculptures to dress a town proud to show off its fine art?

"Why not a craft centre, why not a peoples centre for music and theatre?"

"This will take planning and time and, of course, funding, but it would change the face of this extraordinary town, that has for too long hid its light under a bushel," Jan adds.


What do you think?

Do you agree with Jan Parrish or is Wrexham doomed to be a 'Hick town'?

Can Wrexham ever hope to hold it's own, with competition for all things cultural coming from the likes of Liverpool and Cardiff?

How important is it that Wrexham invests in its artists and culture anyway? Is it money well spent, or should the cash be used to help communities in other ways?

As part of an ongoing investigation we want to know your thoughts on Wrexham's art scene.

Whatever your opinion, good or bad, make sure you share them by leaving a comment below or emailing digitalnews@nwn.co.uk