Ross-on-Wye is a border town, fiercely English but very close to Wales and occasionally Ross residents share some of the Welsh culture. Several schools in Ross hold Eisteddfod, competitions for the pupils in drama, dance, writing and music.

They are building on a tradition which began in Wales hundreds of years ago and continues to be a prominent feature of Wales today, drawing visitors from across the world to the special site where the event takes place. T

his year the National Eisteddfod is taking place in Abergavenny, which is a popular place for Ross residents to visit and a trip to the Eistedfodd will give residents an even greater insight into the history of this country and its language.

Art in Penallt has been invited to mount a major display in the massive main marquee at the forthcoming National Eisteddford on the Maes in Abergavenny, from August 2nd to 6th.

The Art in Penallt team has only recently learned that the display space is on offer, so time has been limited to shortlist exhibitors and demonstrators. They are still building their final catalogue of exhibitors but to get an idea about who might be there visit their festival website at www.artinpenallt.org.uk or call them on 01600 715781

Ther aim is to provide an opportunity for visitors from Wales to have an early look at the works of some of the best professional artists and makers in south-east Wales, most of whom will also be on show at the Penallt Art Festival, near Monmouth and Ross-on-Wye, on September 22nd - 25th. As an arts exhibition organiser Art in Penallt is only in its 6th year. However, the year on year growth of the September festival illustrates the talent that is around and the appetite the discerning public in this area has for excellence in creativity and craftsmanship.

Most pieces on show will be for sale and range from jewellery, ceramics, glass, wood and bronze to fine art, prints and sculpture.

There will also be a programme of daily demonstrations and talks at the Eisteddford by selected artists and makers. Contributors will speak about their work and the techniques that they use in creating and making works of art. They want to dispel the myth that Wales lags behind in the visual arts scene by showcasing artists and makers in Wales who are at the top of their game, not just locally but also nationally and internationally.

You can also contact the team at [email protected] or visit them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArtinPenallt