SHOPS and businesses are doubling up as art galleries to give people the chance to enjoy the work of local artists.

More than 70 businesses, including butchers, solicitors and an undertaker’s, have joined this year’s Art Trail in Wanstead.

As part of the 15-day event, artists were encouraged to display their work in shops throughout the area, with shoppers on Wanstead High Street able to look at the paintings and sculptures while buying their groceries.

Art Trail organiser Donna Mizzi said: “It’s all about breaking down barriers.

“Too many people think ‘I don’t understand art’, or ’I’m not clever enough to appreciate it’.

“By putting art in the shops we are making it accessible and allowing people to interact with it.

“It’s great to see people discussing the art, it really promotes a community spirit.”

The Art Trail runs until September 25. For more information visit www.artgroupwanstead.com.

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