27 May: Book Launch - Bright Lives: Historical Black Figures in Wales.

Historical Black Figures in Wales, honouring powerful stories from Wales’ rich and diverse past.

Join former Children’s Laureate of Wales Alex Wharton in conversation with Darren Chetty as they discuss BRIGHT LIVES, a powerful new work commissioned by Cadw to celebrate Wales’ rich and diverse history.

Exploring themes of identity, creativity, and education, BRIGHT LIVES highlights the importance—and liberation—of sharing positive historical narratives.

The event will feature discussion of standout pieces including The Gardener, worn by Lewis Hamilton at the Met Gala 2024, and Diolch Mr Robeson, a tribute to Paul Robeson and his connection to the South Wales miners.

An evening of inspiration, not to be missed….

Alex Wharton is an award-winning author, poet, and performer, and served as Children’s Laureate Wales (2023–2025). His work spans radio and ballet, and includes collaborations with organisations such as the Royal Foundation, British Council of Literature, Hay Festival, and the BBC. His debut collection Daydreams and Jellybeans was shortlisted for Wales Book of the Year, while Doughnuts, Thieves and Chimpanzees was Carnegie-nominated. His later collections include Red Sky at Night: Poet’s Delight, shortlisted for the Jhalak Prize, and Red Sky in the Morning: Poet’s Warning(2025).

Dr Darren Chetty is a teacher, lecturer, writer and editor, with research interests in education, philosophy, racism, children’s literature and hip-hop culture. He is a sought-after speaker and a specialist in philosophy for and with children and communities.