In the heart of Kidwelly, where history lingers in stone and story, a new tribute now stands to honour one of Wales’ most courageous daughters. A handcrafted sculpture of Gwenllian ferch Gruffydd has been created by local artist Non Davies and is proudly on permanent display in the reception area of Kidwelly Castle.

This striking piece is far more than a sculpture; it is a labour of love and a testament to community pride. Non Davies has carefully fashioned Gwenllian using an imaginative blend of materials — electrical cable, tin foil and masking tape form her structure, while her garments are crafted from recycled T-shirts, jumpers and coaxial cable. Every element reflects both creativity and sustainability. Drawing on her background in hairdressing, Non created Gwenllian’s flowing hair from wool, delicately curled around cocktail sticks, before finishing the entire figure with fabric hardener to give it strength and permanence.

The result is a powerful and evocative figure that captures both the strength and spirit of a woman whose legacy still burns brightly in Kidwelly.

Gwenllian ferch Gruffydd is inseparably linked with the town’s history. In 1136, near Kidwelly, she made her final stand against Norman forces. The daughter of Gruffudd ap Cynan, Prince of Gwynedd, Gwenllian led an army to defend Deheubarth while her husband was away seeking crucial alliances. Though ultimately defeated and killed in battle close to Kidwelly Castle, her bravery resonated across Wales. Her death became a rallying cry and a powerful symbol of Welsh resistance.

Today, Kidwelly continues to honour her courage with a monument and annual remembrance, ensuring that her story remains central to the town’s historical identity. Non Davies’ sculpture now adds a new dimension to that remembrance — a tactile, visual celebration of Gwenllian’s enduring flame.

Standing within the ancient walls of Kidwelly Castle, this contemporary tribute bridges past and present. It reminds visitors and residents alike that Gwenllian’s spirit — fierce, determined and unyielding — still watches over the town where she made her legendary stand.

A little about Non…

Non is a self-taught crafting artist whose creativity is deeply rooted in family, tradition, and the rich heritage of her community.

From an early age, Non was fortunate to spend precious time with her exceptionally talented grandmother, who first introduced her to sewing and a wide variety of traditional crafts. Those moments together sparked a lifelong love of making and creating by hand. What began as learning simple stitches grew into a passion for craftsmanship that continues to define her artistic journey.

Her creative path was further nurtured during her school years under the guidance of Mr. Williams at Burry Port Secondary Modern, as it was known then. There, she developed confidence in her artistic abilities and a deeper appreciation for the arts.

Non’s story is woven into the history of her family and local community. Her grandfather worked in the quarry in Mynydd y Garreg, while another grandfather in Kidwelly was a skilled carpenter in the brick yard. Craftsmanship clearly runs in the family — from stone and wood to fabric and thread. Her father worked in the optical profession, adding another layer of precision and skill to the family’s legacy.

Today, Non lives in the little bungalow on Ferry Road — a home lovingly built by her grandfather. Surrounded by memories, history, and generations of hard work and creativity, she continues to honour her family’s legacy through her craft.

For Non, art is more than a hobby; it is a connection to her roots, her upbringing, and the hands that taught her to create. Her work carries not only skill, but story — stitched with heritage, resilience, and love.