Caerphilly Council will mark Holocaust Memorial Day with an exhibition of poignant artwork and poetry from local school pupils and artist David Garner, in the heart of Blackwood Town Centre opening on Monday 25 January.
The owner of a vacant shop in The Market Place Blackwood, opposite Peacocks, has kindly loaned the premises to the council to be transformed into an art exhibition from 25 and 30 January.
The exhibition will comprise of work from pupils from Cwmcarn High School, Blackwood Comprehensive School and Risca Community Comprehensive School, together with Garner’s artwork B for Defiance, an exact replica of the sign at Auschwitz.
A special event will take place at 11am on Wednesday 27 January to officially mark Holocaust Memorial Day, the international day of remembrance for victims of the Holocaust and other genocides. The day will honour the survivors and remember those who have lost their lives. It will also provide an opportunity to reflect on the way we live our lives today.
Artist David Garner said, “Sadly, one thing that we’ve learnt is that we seldom learn from history. But we won’t learn from history if we forget the Holocaust. It is not only important to remember, but to educate, create dialogue and be aware that fascist views and behaviour are ever present.”
Leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council, Cllr. Keith Reynolds, said:
“This is the second year we have hosted a community event to commemorate this important national day of remembrance. The pupils have been hard at work creating some moving pieces for the interactive exhibition under the guidance of artist David Garner. I would urge people to visit the art exhibition and join us in commemorating those who lost their lives.”
For further information about the artwork please visit www.davidgarnerartist.com or contact 01443 863218.
You can also view David’s art on his Flickr photo gallery and you can view the B for Defiance, an exact replica of the sign at Auschwitz or the David’s website.