Abergavenny’s Market Hall has once again been transformed, as this year’s much-loved decorative installation brings the fascinating world of amphibians to life.
Led by designer Bettina Reeves and supported by Mayumi Takahagi, the annual project has become a cherished tradition within the town. Each year, a new theme is carefully developed and brought to life with the help of a dedicated team of volunteers.
This year’s theme focuses on amphibians, featuring an array of striking 3D creations including frogs, toads and newts. The idea was inspired not only by their unique shapes and textures, but also by a desire to highlight species that are increasingly under threat due to climate change, habitat loss and disease.
The creative process begins nearly a year in advance, with research, sketching, and material preparation laying the groundwork. Once ready, volunteers come together in large numbers, often around 50 participants, to help construct the final pieces over an intensive three-week period.
Despite the scale and complexity of the project, it is the sense of community that truly defines it. Volunteers of all ages return year after year, forming friendships and taking pride in contributing to something that brings joy to both residents and visitors.
The finished installation has become a focal point for the town, with many people visiting the Market Hall specifically to see the decorations, take photographs, and share the experience with friends and family. Local stallholders also warmly welcome the display, which adds vibrancy to the space throughout the year.
Funded by Abergavenny Town Council, the installation continues to build on its origins as part of the Abergavenny Food Festival, evolving into a unique and much-anticipated annual feature.
The amphibian display will remain in place until next year, when a new theme will once again transform the Market Hall.
Volunteer Acknowledgement:
This year’s installation was made possible thanks to the time, creativity and dedication of local volunteers:
Alison McKenzie, Caroline Fairclough, Cath Barton, Cathy Stoker, Chris Curtis, Clare Shirtcliff, Clarissa Berzolla, Claudia Berzolla, Ellie Bevan, Esme Carter, Freddy Edmonds, Jane Smith, Jayne Hunt, Jean Armstrong, Jean Ellaway, Jill Hedges, Jill Standley, Joelle Duchemin, Joy Rossiter, Judith Skeels, Kate Davies, Kate Ward, Kerry Mudd, Laura Collins, Liz Buckler, Liz Lloyd, Liz Terry, Maggie McInnes, Margaret McBlane, Mariko Ume-Jones, Mary Falkner, Maureen Varley, Mavis McKenzie, Megan Meredith, Migs Jones, Miriam Kelly, Natasha Griffiths, Nesta Griffiths, Oliver Barton, Pauline Richards, Pauline Smith, Pip Bevan, Robbie Prior, Rosie Godfrey-Davies, Ruth Morgan, Sally Maynard, Simon Meredith, Stella Tooley, Sue Harper, Susan Jones, Suzanne Parry, Teri McAvoy, Vicky Sewell, Veronica Ruth and Zoë Cameron.
