Creative people can get a "real thrill" out of seeing their work on display when the Wanstead Art Trail kicks off.

The annual event invites people from all different walks of like to showcase their talents across the high street.

This year's theme is ‘the human condition’, and artists can use the widest possible interpretation and artists can put prices on their work.

Amateur artist Donna Mizzi, of Rectory Crescent, set up the art trail eight years ago to provide local artists with a platform.

She said: "It's important to so many people. There are plenty people who take part every year and we love seeing new faces.

"I think for people who haven't showcased in public before, it's a real thrill to know strangers are looking at their work."

She says the art trail is all the more important since the introduction of parking charges on the high street, which has seen footfall decrease.

"It seems quieter, but hopefully the art trail will create a new buzz," she added.

The trail lasts for 16 days and this year, will be held from September 8 to 23.

All types of art from adults is welcome, including collages, photography and paintings.

More than 50 high street businesses and community centres take part, showing all types of visual art from painting to photography, from sculpture to pottery, and from mosaic to installations.

Around 150 artists were involved last year – individuals and group members – all with strong connections to Wanstead.

Ms Mizzi added "One of the beautiful advantages of taking part is that it is extremely inclusive. There is no vetting. Artists just need to find a venue willing to show their work, and there are huge venues such as St Gabriel's Church in Aldersbrook which offer a vast amount of space. For many of the participants, the trail is the first time they've shown their work in public."

Most of the venues are shops and businesses in and around Wanstead High Street. For full details go to: www.artgroupwanstead.com

Free guides will be produced by sponsor Stow Brothers, and there is no charge for the public to view the art.