Artist Sarah Wooldridge is preparing to unveil her first solo exhibition, a collection shaped by her love of nature, Celtic mythology and fantasy worlds.
‘The Enchanted Forest’ can be viewed at The Chamber Gallery in Old Cwmbran from Friday 28 August to Saturday 26 September.
A public open evening takes place on Thursday 27 August between 6.30pm and 8.30pm, where visitors are invited to join Sarah for a glass of wine and nibbles while taking a first look at the work.
Sarah, who is originally from Pontypool and now lives in Cwmbran, said: “I’m from Pontypool but living in Cwmbran. I have always created art from a young age. I studied fine art at university. This year I have been focusing more on painting to help me cope with anxiety.”
Local art
She explained that spending more time outdoors in 2026 has helped shape her practice, and that taking part in local art activities has boosted her confidence.
“Art has helped me to get out more and meet people this year. I took part in the Pontypool Plein Air Exhibition which I was nervous about but I met some lovely people whilst I was outside painting. I have also joined an art class in Old Cwmbran and I have made new creative friends there.”
“I have felt a desire to learn more about the history of Wales and our local area for a while so this year I attended local history classes at Torfaen Adult Education. These classes helped me feel a stronger connection to our area.”
She added that discovering how “magical and rich” local culture is inspired her to share it through her work.
Reflecting on the digital world, Sarah said: “With the usage of generative AI becoming more prevalent…many of us feel disconnected from the natural world around us.
‘AI epidemic’
“Physically creating art is the perfect antidote to this AI epidemic.”
She hopes her exhibition encourages people to reconnect with creativity and local heritage.
She said: “I hope that with my exhibition I can encourage more people to appreciate real, physical art, as well as inspire you to learn more about the history around us.
“The ongoing exhibition is the perfect opportunity to bring your children and young adults along to be inspired, but this collection has something for everyone. Let’s get lost in ‘The Enchanted Forest’ together.”
The Chamber Gallery is in The Council House, Ventnor Road, Old Cwmbran.