If you’re anything like me, the stretch between New Year’s Eve and the start of term can feel like a peculiar limbo. With the festive buzz fading and routines yet to resume, it’s tempting to count down the days until you’re back in Bristol. But this quiet spell is the perfect chance to make the most of being home in South Wales and immerse yourself in the local art scene.
Cardiff is brimming with exhibitions and creative experiences this winter. It’s the ideal way to shake off the holiday haze, take a break from leftover chocolates, and return to Bristol feeling inspired.
'Art of the Selfie', Amgueddfa Cymru/Museum Wales
There’s something profoundly intimate about a self-portrait. Every stroke, every detail, is more than an artistic choice; it’s a glimpse into the artist’s biography and their perception of themselves. Museum Wales’s current exhibition, ‘Art of the Selfie’, invites us to consider how this deeply personal art form has evolved into the ubiquitous modern selfie—or whether the two are connected at all. Both forms capture their creator in a moment of time, but can a selfie truly be considered art? These are the kinds of questions that linger as you explore the dimly lit gallery.
The exhibition features a compelling array of self-portraits. The highlight is undoubtedly Vincent Van Gogh’s Portrait of the Artist, on loan from the Musée d’Orsay in Paris, and being shown in Wales for the first time. But it was Anya Paintsil’s Blod that captivated me most. Drawing inspiration for Blodeuwedd, a figure from The Mabinogion, Paintsil fuses her Welsh and Ghanaian heritage, employing traditional rug-making techniques learned from her Welsh grandmother alongside Afro hairstyling methods. Her work is a powerful exploration of identity, folklore, and heritage, standing out amidst the more familiar masterpieces.
The exhibition’s thoughtful curation, which includes both global and Welsh influences, encourages reflection on what defines a self-portrait. Is it merely a reflection of appearance, or something deeper—an exploration of identity, culture, and the self?
It’s a privilege to have such a rich collection so close to home, and the museum’s pay-what-you-can donation system ensures that the experience remains accessible for students who are home for Christmas. For art lovers, students, or anyone curious about the intersection of tradition and modernity, ‘Art of the Selfie’ is an absolute must-see.
'Art of the Selfie' is on display at Amgueddfa Cymru until 26th January.
'Hamilton', Wales Millennium Centre
Hamilton is a masterpiece, and if you’re in Cardiff this Christmas, you’ve got to the perfect opportunity to see what all the fuss is about. Currently playing at the Millennium Centre, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s modern classic is a cultural phenomenon for good reason. Tickets start at £25—perhaps a splurge, but undeniably worth it. With electrifying songs, sharp commentary, and a gripping story, it’s a show that transcends its subject matter.
On the surface, the tale of an American Founding Father might not seem like something that would resonate with a British audience. Yet Hamilton’s themes—love, immigration, identity, power—are universal, making it a hit on the West End and on tour. Cardiff audiences seemed particularly delighted by King George, the show’s comedic jewel, who earned some of the biggest laughs I’ve heard in any performance. Perhaps the Welsh and Americans share a special bond when it comes to poking fun at the English?
Having seen Hamilton in London and on tour, I can confidently say that this touring cast is exceptional. Their energy and talent bring new life to the production, making it as thrilling as ever. Whether you’ve had the soundtrack on repeat for years or are seeing it fresh, Hamilton delivers. Even my 80-year-old Nan, with no prior exposure, absolutely loved it.
If you missed the musical at Bristol Hippodrome last year, Hamilton at the Millennium Centre is running until 25th January.
'No Welsh Art', National Library of Wales
One of my New Year’s resolutions—rare as they are to keep—is to reconnect with my Welsh heritage. Growing up, Welsh culture and language felt more like obligations than inspirations, something force-fed without much context. But since moving to Bristol, I’ve found myself missing Wales deeply and wanting to explore my roots more meaningfully.
This Christmas, I finally visited the National Library of Wales, a place I’d embarrassingly neglected until now. Its exhibition, 'No Welsh Art', offered a powerful glimpse into the stories and identities that define Welsh culture. One painting, Tŷ Haf (Holiday Home) by Beca (Peter Davies), really struck me, capturing the nationalist tensions of the 1980s when second-home buyers were blamed for worsening Wales’ housing crisis. The painting’s raw power and political undertones were a stark reminder of how much I hadn’t learned about my country’s history—something I can only blame on the English-dominated narratives of my schooldays.
‘No Welsh Art’ is a free exhibition at the National Library of Wales.
Honourable Mention: 'Sketchy Cats Drink 'n Draw' at Scaredy Cats Café and Bar
Scaredy Cats Café and Bar is easily one of my favourite spots in Cardiff. Tucked away in the city centre, it’s a vibrant, queer-friendly haven filled with quirky cat-themed art, impressive greenery, and a laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re there for the free board games, creative drinks, or one of their unique events it’s the perfect place to unwind.
One highlight is their monthly 'Drink ‘n Draw' nights, hosted by local designer Chris Evans (@queerbisillo on Instagram). Held on the last Monday of each month, these events are a brilliant mix of creativity and community. They’ve also hosted student-only nights in the past. January's 'Drink 'n Draw' may occur well into term time for Bristol students, but keep the venue in mind if you find yourself making a mid-term trip home.
While this festive season was a little quieter on the event front, I couldn't resist talking about Scaredy Cats. Whether for a cosy drink, a game night with friends, or just some quality people watching, it's well worth a visit. If you’re in Bristol, it’s an easy day trip for a change of scenery.
Will you be visiting any exhibitions over the winter break?
