If you have been to the Co-op recently, you may have noticed some extra splashes of colour on our walls. For the last several months, local artists have been given the opportunity to hang their works in the Co-op, giving them a bit of exposure and an opportunity to sell their works. And yes, we are claiming responsibility for brokering a sale already.

Our current artist, Berit Strasser, is an art teacher at the Waldorf School. She is also in training to work in art therapy. She has exhibited in a variety of venues and we are happy she agreed to brighten our space. Berit has placed 20 works in the Co-op, and to facilitate finding all these gems, we produced a treasure map, found at the check-out desk.

One of the seven principles of Co-operatives is Concern for Community. Last year, the Board of London Food Co-op decided to take steps to become a community hub, offering space for learning, community awareness, and fellowship and community building. One board member suggested art displays, and although the Co-op is not well set up for this (we have no hanging hardware, space is limited), we took a leap and invited an artist, who trusted us with her work. Berit is our third local artist displaying in our space.

So, the next time you’re shopping at the Co-op, look around you! I know the fresh organic produce is lovely, but so is the art.