Aber's new art units' £200k deal

Some of the units have already been built

A project to build innovative business units for people involved in the arts has scooped a £200,000 grant to construct more.

Artists have already moved into some of the eight original futuristic-looking premises at Aberystwyth University.

But thanks to a Welsh Assembly Government grant the people behind the scheme now plan to erect some more.

The development has also been supported by the Arts Council for Wales and the university.

The units have an unusual exterior of crinkled stainless steel, but they are said to be eco-friendly, practical and simple, with good lighting.

They are being used as studios and offices for artists.

Heritage Minister Alun Ffred Jones (l) and Steve Hewson of Aberystwyth Arts Centre outside one of the units

Two artists-in-residence - Dafydd Fortt from Cardiff and Ellie Rees from London - have already moved in to their new premises, which will be their creative home for the next three months.

Mr Fortt, 40, said: "Coming here has allowed me to solely concentrate on my work.

"It's given me the time to focus on my current work which has evolved into large scale intricate wallscapes which spring directly from my experience within the Welsh landscape."

Ms Rees, 32, said: "My work involves video making and I'm currently working on an installation of separate works that I hope will create a dialogue exploring representations of femininity and romance in film, literature and popular culture."

Another company looking to move the units is Creu Cymru, the development agency for theatres and arts centres in Wales.

Creu Cymru director Richard Hogger said: "Being a creative organisation, it seemed only natural that we relocate to a creative hub where we will be working alongside like-minded companies and individuals."