Weekend walkers along Boanyo Street have the opportunity to stop and connect with art in a novel way, now that Stewart Johnston has opened the Boanyo Stop and Swap Gallery.

This truely micro gallery has more in common with street libraries than commercial galleries. He was inspired to set one up after hearing of them emerging as neighbourhood arts hubs in Canada.

"The premise is that the art you see is free to view and explore, but is also free to exchange," says Stewart.

"If you see something that you think might enhance your life for a month or a week, or even forever, please feel free to exchange a bit of your own creativity for someone else’s."

He's mindful that people may not have something on them to exchange, but hopeful that their experience will lead them to contribute something at some other time. Size is also a factor, so a visit may inspire others to create miniature artwork for the space. Like a street library, returning something is entirely up to the individual.

Stewart Johnston at the opening of the micro gallery

Neighbour Barbara Hill has already contributed some of her paintings.

"I think it is a wonderful community initiative," she says.

"It will give more chances for the neighbourhood to come together, and promote a sharing culture."

Stewart's friend Ian Harrison came in from Jamberoo for the opening.

"I think it is a great idea and hope it grows," he says.

With the small exhibition space, there is already work housed in the gallery storeroom and talk of a sculpture garden extension.

For those asking the 'what is art?' question, Stewart's definition is broad enough to cover any creative pursuit - collage, found objects, knitting, knotting, embroidery, basketry, baking, beading, kneading, painting, printing, sculpting, shaping, nailing, and of course, joining and sawing.

For the first month, Stewart will be manning the gallery on Saturday and Sunday mornings to explain the concept to people.

"After that I'm hopeful that we can leave it outside permanently as a community asset, just like a street library."

He welcomes you to come along to the front of 36 Boanyo Avenue, Kiama, to find out more.