The Josef Herman Art Foundation has created a self-guided heritage trail as a celebration of the life and work of Jewish artist and refugee Josef Herman, who found sanctuary in Ystradgynlais after fleeing Warsaw during World War 2
Herman is renowned as an artist who documented the everyday life of the miners, farmers and metal workers that lived here. His time in Ystradgynlais inspired and left a lasting legacy for the people of this small mining community nestled in the Swansea Valley. Through this trail we are sharing our collection of artwork and stories to help inform post-industrial generations of this rich heritage.
The route begins at the Welfare Miners Hall which was at the centre of community life at the time, and which is now home to the Foundation and a collection of more than 150 of Herman’s original works. The trail then weaves its way around the town, taking in the places where Herman lived and worked and introducing the people and places that inspired his art, not just during the years that he called Ystradgynlais home, but throughout his long, illustrious career.
We will be continually adding to the trail and encourage people to share any stories, images, media and ephemera they may have, relating to Herman’s time in Ystradgynlais, to help us grow the archive and preserve the rich heritage for future generations.
Accessibility
The Heritage Trail follows an easy, flat pedestrian route around the town centre, but please note reaching locations in Cwmgiedd and the former site of the Ynyscedwyn Colliery involve some small hills and country paths. For those with any difficulties walking, Cwmgiedd could be visited by car, and there is parking very close to the entrance of the former colliery which is now a picturesque nature reserve.
Please follow the Map below or call into the Miners Welfare Hall in Ystradgynlais for a trail brochure.
heritage trail book
Images from the heritage trail booklet
These images provide wider information about the Heritage Trail and can be used in relation to the map whilst walking- you could have previously taken screen shots- you could look at the website on your walk or you could explore as reflective information after your walk.
