As Pride Month draws to a close, Blaenau Gwent celebrates one of its most inspiring figures —Ebbw Vale-raised artist Nathan Wyburn—who was today presented with a Special Recognition Award by Equality Member Champion, and Presiding Member Councillor Chris Smith.
Nathan has long been a source of inspiration and pride for the people of Blaenau Gwent. He first captured national attention on Britain’s Got Talent in 2011, astonishing audiences with a portrait of Simon Cowell crafted entirely from Marmite on toast. Since then, he has continued to push artistic boundaries, using unconventional materials like ketchup, glitter, tea, feathers, and sweets to create powerful and thought-provoking works.
But Nathan is more than just an artist—he is a passionate advocate for equality, mental health awareness, and LGBTQ+ rights. His art often reflects his personal journey and serves as a beacon of hope and visibility for others navigating similar experiences.
Despite international acclaim, Nathan has remained deeply connected to his roots in Blaenau Gwent. From leading school art sessions to creating public murals—such as his tribute to Tredegar icon Aneurin Bevan—his commitment to community engagement is unwavering.
“I’m honoured to receive this recognition. I’m incredibly proud to have been brought up in this area and I really feel it gave me a strong basis for who I’ve become as a person and an artist. I endeavour to continue my artwork and advocacy going forward and always hope to receive the call to come home and help with future projects and initiatives in the area. Thank you!” said Nathan.
Most recently, Nathan played a pivotal role in the success of Blaenau Gwent’s very first Pride event. His creativity, energy, and leadership were instrumental in bringing the celebration to life. Not only did he coordinate the entire line-up of artists who performed on the day, but he also opened the event and co-compered alongside fellow advocate Wayne Courtney. His “Gay Icons” exhibition added a powerful visual element to the day, celebrating LGBTQ+ culture and history.
“As the Equality Member Champion, Blaenau Gwent hosting its own Pride event is something I have been keen to get off the ground for some time,” said Councillor Chris Smith. “With Nathan’s connections, hard work, and all-round enthusiasm, we were able to deliver a truly memorable event that was a landmark moment—fostering a sense of unity, respect, and joy among both allies and LGBTQ+ individuals.”
The borough’s Pride celebration stands as a testament to the power of community and the importance of representation. It also aligns with broader movements for equality, echoing the legacy of the 1969 Stonewall Riots and the ongoing global fight for LGBTQ+ rights.
Last weekend, Blaenau Gwent proudly joined the Pride Cymru parade as part of the Proud Councils Network, reaffirming its commitment to inclusion and equality.
