An abandoned Aberdeen art supplies shop has been reborn as a cultural haven displaying thought-provoking creative works.
The Peacock Visual Arts group has taken possession of what was the Artists Pad store, which had lain empty on Castle Street for four years.
Organisers say the W OR Mcontemporary art exhibition space will play a part in showcasing the city’s burgeoning creative community.
Peacock Visual Arts director, Nuno Sacramento presided over a packed launch event at the venue over the weekend.
Mr Sacramento said: “Our group has been going for 43 years, but this opportunity to move to a main square should mean more people than ever before are engaging with the work of our members.
“Peacock is government-funded so belongs to the people of Aberdeen and this new space brings contemporary art to the forefront in the centre.
“People of all generations and all walks of life are welcome to come in and experience art.”
The outfit secured a grant to help them take over the venue in November and began work on preparing it in January.
Aberdeen artist Raydale Dower is the first person to have his work put on display, with an exhibition running between 10am and 5pm every day until September 2.
Mr Dower’s work contains a distinctly local flavour as many pieces are based around an old iron discovered at his parents’ Bridge of Don home.
He said: “This old shop on the historic setting of the Castlegate should change the way people in the city look at art.
“My exhibition reflects that, as it concerns how we look at everyday objects and what they can become.
“It is bringing a real cultural vibe to this part of the city.”
Pieces by Sean Lynch and Michelle Horrigan will go on display at the 21 Castle Street site next month.