about us

  our mission statement:

  CARAD

• promotes participation in Arts and Heritage activity for social and cultural benefit
• encourages individuals to develop and share existing skills and inspires them to learn new ones
• uses creative projects to celebrate and represent the area's distinctive voices
• works in partnership with all ages and abilities to foster a sense of place, worth and confidence

about us

CARAD was formed in 1998 by a group of enthusiastic local people, following a hugely successful community play in Rhayader, in 1994. This project stirred people to undertake three years of Community Consultation and business planning which in turn inspired the community to create its own Arts and Heritage organisation in the town. Through their dedication, hardwork and the essential support of major funders, CARAD was born.

CARAD, a registered charity and a company limited by guarantee, is unique in its work as a community organisation that undertakes activities in both Arts and Heritage. With activities as diverse as Circus Skills and Shadow Puppetry to Sewing groups and Willow Weaving, CARAD offers activities to suit all interests.

People who live in this beautiful area have a strong sense of place and community: oral and folk history are part of everyday conversations, and the environment an integral part of everyday work.

This sense of place will now be explored in CARAD’s biggest project to date – a new community museum for Rhayader and district. CARAD took over the collection of Rhayader Folk Museum in 2002 when changes in access to public buildings meant that their building was no longer viable. A programme of exhibitions and public consultation eventually led to a successful fundraising campaign. Having secured Heritage Lottery Funding the project is progressing, with the work starting in the autumn of 2007. With typical creative flair, the Building development will be making a very positive artistic statement about the community in which we live and in the long term will be a fitting environment for telling our story.

CARAD gives people in Mid-Wales the chance to involve themselves in artistic expression and interpretation, to share experiences and crucially, to have a voice and to have that voice heard as we consider our place in the modern world.

With a team of dedicated staff, trustees, volunteers and most importantly the support of the local community, CARAD continues to thrive and provide activities, facilities and opportunities for everyone to enjoy.

Explore our website and find out more about CARAD and how you can become involved.

See you soon
All the team @ CARAD