Westminster Council-owned shops which became empty due to the recession are reopening as art galleries.
Disused shops have been reinvented to house exhibitions from an eclectic mix of artists. Work at the galleries includes pieces from the award-winning contemporary oil painter Lee Campbell, architectural glass sculptures from Eleanor Long and photography from former documentary director Anne Clements.
Three pianos have also been placed in the new galleries which have been transformed from a former hair salon in Church Street, Lisson Grove, a neglected Thai restaurant in Fernhead Road, North Paddington, and a disused ceramics shop in Broadwick Street, West End.
The galleries are in place for a few weeks at a time, or until the shops, which are owned by Westminster Council, are let to another business.
The council is now seeking to continue the success of these galleries and is looking for more arts and community projects needing help in the future.
Westminster Council's cabinet member for adult and community services Cllr Ed Argar said: "When shops become empty it can create a negative impact on high streets and the people that use them.
"This is a perfect opportunity to make the most of otherwise unused spaces and bring them back to life for the benefit of the whole community, until demand from suitable long-term business lessees for the vacant premises is found."
