Tucked away in Canton is the most exciting destination for contemporary art in Cardiff, Chapter Arts Centre. From cutting edge Palestinian art to international cinema screenings to a delicious lunch, the centre is used by all members of the community.
The entrance of Chapter, reminds the visitor of the building’s rich history as a former school (Canton High School) before its transformation in 1973.
You’ve shopped until you’ve dropped, you’re bored of the city centre and as usual, it’s raining. You wouldn’t expect to be able to dry off and reinvigorate in Canton. But within one of Cardiff’s most ethnically diverse suburbs lies Chapter Arts, a community hub for international art, film and live performance. Here, cutting edge contemporary art is made accessible to all through cinema screenings and dance classes. If that’s not your bag, the cafe is pretty good too.
All elements of Chapter have an International perspective. Stephen Phillips, 25, Programme Support Officer for Film and Cinema said, “Much of the film at Chapter has an international focus. Throughout November we’re hosting both an African and Italian film festival.”
Accessibility is core to Chapter’s philosophy. “Chapter is the leading arts centre in Dementia friendly screenings thanks to support from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation,” added Stephen.
One Chapter fan is Angela, 72. “I prefer Chapter to the other cinemas because there’s someone here to welcome you and show you to your seat.”
One of Chapter’s cinema screens where Angela spent her afternoon.
Younger art fans are also welcome. Mum Rachel and baby Max enjoy the baby cinema screenings: “I really like the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere of Chapter Arts. I mainly use the cafe as I can feed Max freely.”
The Cafe at Chapter Arts, where all profits are invested into the centre is enjoyed by young and old.
Gallery assistant Thomas Williams guards the Oriel Gallery where Palestinian artist Larissa Sansour’s work is currently displayed: “The curator of our arts spaces, Hannah Firth travels all over the world in search of cutting edge contemporary art that will make our visitors think.”
The Oriel gallery is one of two contemporary art galleries at Chapter. Currently it is home to Larissa Sansour’s exploration of the way history and myth impact national identity.
Outside, Chapter is just as committed to the local area as the Community Garden at the front entrance provides free produce to visitors. “We’ve also got a beehive out the back which makes delicious honey!” said Stephen.