The grand finale of the Gŵyl Cariad Aber festival saw pictures from the festivities projected onto the pier.

For the past three weeks, various places in Aberystwyth have been love bombed by the festival, thanks to a team of creative people working hard to make it happen.

From seasoned, professional artists to people who have picked up a camera or a paintbrush for the first time, their photographs, creativity, and stories have shaped this festival, and now, for one night only, their work will be placed in the spotlight - literally.

On Thursday, 13 February, from 7pm-9pm, images from the Aber Photo Challenge and moments captured throughout the festival were projecting onto the side of The Royal Pier Aberystwyth on the prom.

Speaking before the projections went live, a festival spokesperson said: “It’s a pilot project, an experiment, and we don’t know exactly how it will look… but that’s part of what makes it unique. It belongs to all of us.”

Hannah Evans from the Royal Pier said: “We are genuinely excited to see this project light up the side of Aberystwyth’s iconic pier and very thankful for the opportunity to provide a space to make it happen.“

Wendy Hughes, Events and Partnerships, Aberystwyth Town Council, said: “Aberystwyth Town Council is delighted to support the project and is looking forward to seeing the pier lit up with creativity.”

Gŵyl Cariad Aber producer, Sally Blaise, added: “This whole festival was intended as a love letter to Aberystwyth - written by its people, in images, in conversations, in shared moments of creativity.

“The response has been incredible, proving what we already felt in our bones: there’s a deep hunger for the arts here.

“If this is just the beginning, imagine what we could build together in the years ahead!

“The Photo Challenge was one way to say, ‘This is for everyone.’ And I hope it’s just the start.

“This festival has proved something we already knew - Aberystwyth is bursting with creativity, and people want to celebrate it.

“This pilot has been a first step, but it has thoroughly tested our concept for an annual festival that brings people together, welcomes visitors from afar, and firmly puts our town on the cultural map.

“The Photo Challenge was about ensuring everyone could participate, no matter their background, experience, or ability - because the arts should belong to everyone.

“We’ve been blown away by the way Aberystwyth has embraced this festival.

“It’s been put together on a shoestring, but the energy, generosity, and enthusiasm from the community, artists, and businesses have made it something exceptional.

“This can be the start of something big - an annual festival that stays rooted in the town but draws people in from far and wide.

“The Photo Challenge was about breaking down barriers, making art feel open and accessible.”