Maps which show the "beauty of London from above" are being exhibited in Waltham Forest for the first time. 

Artist and musician Rose Richardson, of Hove Avenue, Walthamstow is showcasing her 'Map Art' at Hale End Library in Castle Avenue, Walthamstow Library in High Street and Wood Street Library in Forest Road, until April.  

She worked as a lighting and graphic designer for six years before leaving to become a freelance musician where she now plays for the Forest Philharmonic Orchestra and teaches violin for Camden and Hackney Music Services. 

The ex-Highams Park pupil, formerly of Hollywood Way in Woodford Green, started to sketch again two years ago after discovering a "fascinating" ancient map of London by 17th century cartographer Wenceslaus Hollar.

Her biggest piece of map art is of Highams Park and could become a permanent feature inside Hale End Library. 

The exhibition came about after the 33-year-old visited Walthamstow Library. 

She said: "I was in the library one day and saw this lovely long blank wall so I got in touch with the council and they loved my work. 

"It's a real honour and I'm really chuffed at how well it has been received by the community.

"I've created the striking images using ancient and modern maps plus my unique knowledge of light and dark which allows people to experience the beauty of London from above. 

"I have found that people love to have a something in their home, workplace, or really any space that shows where they currently live or have lived in the past.

"People are proud of living in Waltham Forest. It's a diverse and growing borough and this is reflected in the growing numbers of people interested in local art produced by local people."