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19 September 2026 - 28 February 2027
Upper Central Hall
This project brings together Bleak Fabulous — the creative partnership of photographer Clémentine Schneidermann and filmmaker and creative director Charlotte James — with young people from the Traveller community in Pontypool.
Over four days, the group explored a variety of costumes inspired by the theme of “celebration.” The resulting series reflects on femininity, adolescence, and Traveller culture. The project was inspired by archival material, including footage from the Wales Broadcast Archive, part of the National Library of Wales.
Since 2015, Schneidermann and James have been working with youth groups across South Wales, redefining documentary photography through creative collaboration. Drawing from their own artistic backgrounds, they’ve delivered workshops in costume design, photography, and set design — offering young people a hands-on introduction to the creative industries.
Special thanks to the Welsh National Opera for generously providing costumes for the project.
With gratitude to all the participants:
Amelia, Carly, Crystal, Dakota, Demi, Dolly, Fallon, Isabell, Jason Junior, Lavaeh, Leeona, Lilly D, Lilly J, Porcia, Racheal, Shania E, Shania S, Shelly, Sophia, Teago, Tulsia
And to the teachers:
Lynne Robinson
Lisa Knight
Jodie Waters
Bronwyn Parker