A 'JUNGLE' themed art gallery that opened in an Oxford shopping centre is aiming to bring communities together.

Twenty-two-year-old artist Micah Hayns, who lives in Marston, opened the gallery which he calls The Jungle in an empty unit at Templars Square shopping centre.

The young painter turned a vacant shop into a ‘jungle’ using collaged walls, original paintings and even a tree in the middle.

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Currently he gallery, which opened at the beginning of September, only exhibits Mr Hayns' works, however, he hopes that with time the space will attract other artists.

Speaking about the future of The Jungle, he commented: “It is amazing that I have a space of my own to use as a gallery but also a studio.

“I hope that the space will attract people in the area, who love art, but have not had the opportunity to visit many galleries as there is not a lot in the city.”

Mr Hayns also explained he would like to host inspiring art workshops and talks for the community, and even exhibit works by other artists.

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To make his dream come true he teamed up with East Street Arts and Hammond Associates, charities which support artists and bring creativity to empty shops.

Mr Hayns praised his family for spending the summer decorating the walls.

He added: “It really looks incredible.

“The Jungle has been open for a couple of weeks now and I have been receiving some really good feedback, particularly from people who do not expect a gallery space like this in Templars Square.”

To find out more about the space visit www.micahhayns.com