Public art can be a BIG hit, or a VERY BIG miss. But in the case of the Six Bells Colliery Disaster Memorial , the local community have come up trumps. The Guardian stands at the entrance to the small village of Six Bells , standing sentinel on the site of the mine that exploded in 1960, killing 45 colliers, fathers, brothers and sons.
Designed and built by sculptor Sebastien Boyesen, it is a fitting memorial to those who lost their lives in the disaster. From a distance it looks transparent, silhouetted against the light but as you approach the figure of the miner, it seems to turn into a solid mass. A Christ like figure with his arms outstretched, the working man turned redeemer, physical perfection manifested in ruddy iron.
Whilst you are in the area its worth winding your way up a narrow and very steep road to the atmospheric mountain church of Llanilltyd. There are some stunning 360 degree views of the Gwent valleys from here, and the mountain road leads over the high, open moorland to Ebbw Vale.
Go there see it for yourself. en route call in at the Cynon Valley Museum & Gallery, which houses a charming museum documenting the rich history of the Aberdare area and a wonderful collection of contemporary art, crafts and fantastic jewellery.
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