An exhibition of photographs to celebrate the new public artworks installed in Pontypridd and Porth opens at the Muni Arts Centre next month.

'Creating Landmarks' will feature photographs of the new landmarks 'Unity', 'Chain Link Arches'; the bridge lighting in Pontypridd and 'Confluence' in Porth.

Children from Coed-y-lan, Trehopcyn and Cilfynydd Primary Schools and Pontypridd High have recently taken part in workshops to create their own ‘public art’ and some of their designs will go on show. Photographs of the public art commissions for the new Cwm Rhondda Hospital will also be included in the exhibition.

Over the past year, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and its regeneration partners have secured investment for the installation of a range of public art across the county borough, including the gateway Unity sculpture in Pontypridd.

The majority of funding for this public art - set aside specifically for such projects - has come from external sources including the Arts Council of Wales, the Welsh Assembly Government, Visit Wales, Arts and Business, Pontypridd Town Council, Pontypridd Market Company and Macob.

Cllr Paul Cannon, Rhondda Cynon Taf Cabinet Member for Housing and Economic Development, said: "Although it can sometimes divide opinion, public art is another symbol of the investment we have made in our town centres in recent years.

"The association between famous physical features and their respective towns and cities is an important part of promoting the identity of a place, often acting as an enticement for people to come and visit. We hope residents will come along and enjoy the photographs in this exhibition."

Creating Landmarks will be in the Circle Gallery at the Muni Arts Centre, Gelliwastad Road, Pontypridd, from April 16-May 1, 2010.