Showcase of local histories comes to Milford Haven

What makes a place home? Is it the soil under your fingernails, the nicknames shouted across a pub, or the echo of a Norman castle?

This week, Milford Haven’s Torch Theatre has been transformed into a living time capsule, with a new exhibition capturing local people’s connection to Pembrokeshire.

The artwork and creative pieces have been produced by a team of people involved in Wales REACH – an Open University (OU) in Wales project to help people explore their identity and history through the arts in five communities across Wales. It is funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. 

In Pembrokeshire, the artists come from across the county: many are tenants with ateb Group housing association in Milford Haven, and others are involved with Pembroke Dock’s VC Gallery.

Some of the exhibits include:

• Museum in a bag- an exploration of self
• REACH for the Landsker Line- an exploration of the cultural line embodied by Norman Castles and the use of the Welsh Language in Pembrokeshire
• Eco Dying using plants grown in a local community garden
• An interactive scroll which records memories, thoughts, and interests
• REACH back in time- a textile sculpture exploring Milford Haven’s fascinating history
• The Pembrokeshire Quiz- exploring the nicknames that communities in Pembrokeshire have for each other
• An oral history from one of the artists who is a compassionate advocate for disability rights.

'The creative work was interspersed with history talks about Pembrokeshire from partners at The Open University and National Museum of Wales along with some trips to local museums, the county Archive, ice-creams and shared lunches, lots of fun, chats and the strengthening of friendships,' said Sue Mackie, Community Development Team Leader from ateb Group. 'They explored the concept of Cynefin – a word that embodies the idea of a place of belonging in a physical, cultural and spiritual sense.'

'We all know Pembrokeshire as one of the most beautiful parts of Wales,' added Vicky Jones, Deputy Director at the OU in Wales. 'But it’s also made up of its people and their rich, hidden stories, which have been brought to life through this exhibition. Many congratulations to the project team on producing such a thought-provoking event.'

'Wales REACH is a great example of how creativity and heritage can work together to strengthen people’s sense of belonging,' said Andrew White, Director, The National Lottery Heritage Fund in Wales. 'Thanks to National Lottery players, we’re proud to support a project that gives communities the space to explore their identities, tell their stories and celebrate the rich cultural that makes Pembrokeshire so special.'

The content will also form part of the main REACH exhibition which will be shown at St Fagans from the autumn of 2026 and will contain work from all seven partner organisations who have contributed to the Wales REACH Project.