This short animated film was made by our animation group who met for weekly sessions in Spring 2026 at our Breathe Creative allotments and arts space at Leckwith Drove in Cardiff, with participants from Ty Canna, Velindre, and volunteers from the allotment community. This project was funded by The Welsh Government and also supported by The National Lottery Community Fund.
Creative sessions included informal discussions about Wales, Welsh identity, and the Welsh language. Participants were invited to share and talk about their favourite Welsh words or saying and each person chose one word or phrase that was meaningful to them and used it as the inspiration for their animation. Over the following weeks participants learnt the basics of drawing and stop-motion animation, and with support, developed their ideas visually and animated their chosen word or saying. This process allowed participants to experiment creatively while learning new skills in a relaxed and supportive environment.
The Animation Group provided a creative and supportive space where participants could explore Welsh language and culture while learning new artistic skills. Working outdoors in the allotment environment helped create a relaxed atmosphere that encouraged creativity, connection, and wellbeing. The final animation celebrates the participants’ chosen Welsh words and sayings and reflects the shared experience of the group.
Participants reflected on both the creative process and the experience of working in the allotment environment:
“As I walk from the car park to the allotment I start breathing deeper. A weight lifts off my shoulders.”
“Arts venues can be intimidating. Here there is a sense of freedom. I can be creative.”
“The experience in the allotment is grounding. It reaches all your senses.”