A CREDITON art gallery gave local people the opportunity to meet its resident artists and craftspeople.

Gallery 86, in the High Street, is run by local artists and craftspeople, whose highly original work ranges from modern, abstract and traditional paintings and prints to functional and ornamental ceramics.

At an open day the artists were at the gallery, talking about their work, giving visitors the chance to see them at work in their studios, tour the exhibition studios and browse the varied arts and crafts on display.

Andrew Vaccari, one of Gallery 86 resident artists explained: "The open day was a great opportunity to meet the artists, see them at work in their studios and see the range of arts and crafts we produce.

"Most people are surprised by the range and affordability of our work – we are local craftspeople producing some very practical items, as well as traditional and unusual art.

"Many of the items we produce are perfect for special gifts such as bespoke wedding gifts and we also take commissions for individual artworks and crafts, including portraits.

The gallery is run as a co-operative, with seven artists currently in residence, who work in partnership and sell their work directly to the public via the gallery. The upstairs gallery is also used as a venue for visiting artists to exhibit their work and the space is available to hire.

Gallery 86 can be found at 86-87 High Street, Crediton and is open from 10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday (except Wednesday).

Further information is available at http://www.gallery86.co.uk">www.gallery86.co.uk .