Swansea Stone
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This project was set by Biophilic living Swansea, Hacer and Urban Foundry
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Inspired by the rich art of stone ornamentation and nature found across the city, this project aims to preserve the heritage of Swansea's architecture. Integrating the historical culture of Swansea into contemporary spaces.
The project looks at the buildings of Swansea’s past as documented by the paintings of Will Evan’s who was born in Waun Wen during the year of 1888. Will Evan’s captured the buildings of Swansea stood in their beautiful defiance after the ‘Three Nights Blitz’ in 1941. Through the benefit of this historical lense ‘Stone Ornamentation’ tells the story of Welsh resilience and cultural spirit, where a newer space can celebrate the context of history which surrounds it.
Hand drawn elements of the ornamentation add to the organic biophilic quality of the resilient stone, with the designs showcased on digitally printed organic cottons and embroidery on kindly gifted wools.
The colour palette uses earthy greys and stoney blues to represent the rustic quality of the architectural stones, with an ode of nostalgic tones of taupe. Introducing hints of handpainted copper foil onto the digital prints, serves as a reminder to the industry of copper in Swansea, situating the designs in the context of Welsh craftsmanship and history.