To celebrate St David’s Day 2026, Am is proud to share the 3 winning micro-literary pieces in Tudalen; a new digital space on our website to publish original literature from Wales. Tudalen is run in partnership with the National Library of Wales, and supported by the Arts Council of Wales.
Writers were asked to submit pieces of Welsh language micro-literature (up to 500 words) responding to the theme ‘Portrait’, to celebrate the National Library of Wales’ latest exhibition, ‘Portrait and Power’. 3 winning pieces were chosen by a Judging Panel to be published on Tudalen, and the winning writers received £100 each for their work.
There was a great response to the competition, with a large number of entries. The Judging Panel were given a difficult task in selecting only 3 winners. Here are the 3 winning pieces, with commentary from the Judging Panel:
Dienw – Catrin Cheung
“The piece begins with the writer’s reflections on paint color when looking at a self-portrait, and how other artists used the same color to convey emotion. From there, it moves smoothly to the 1980s, at the time of its conception. It is an entertaining and insightful piece that touches on profound topics such as identity, sexuality, family and creativity.”
Blwyddyn y Dylluan – Rolant Tomos
“An impressive and original story about ‘croupier’ nightlife. The story has a strong narrative voice and offers an interesting insight into the night world of shift workers. A special and exciting interpretation of ‘portrait’ as well as being a work of micro-literature that stands on its own.”
Mair – Bethan Page
“An emotional portrait of loss, with a strong central image and gripping narrative. This remarkable story offers a sensitive insight into the lives of others, suggesting a deep emotional world beyond the surface.”
Malachy Edwards, member of the Judging Panel and Vice-Chairman of the PYST Cyf Board, which runs Am, said:
It was a privilege this year to judge this new competition. A good number of applications were received, with a variety of themes being explored under the topic ‘Portrait’. I would like to thank everyone who was brave enough to compete, and extend my congratulations to the winners!”
Alun Llwyd, the Chief Executive of PYST Cyf said:
“It’s exciting to be offer a digital space like Tudalen for Welsh language creative writing, ensuring that Am’s audiences have convenient access to original creativity online, for free. It’s a privilege to be able to publish these special pieces by Catrin, Rolant and Bethan on Tudalen – huge congratulations to them!”
You can read the 3 stories on Tudalen now!