AN exhibition of public gardens at unusual venues around the city is being officially launched at Edinburgh College of Art today.

Artists and architects have created the Jardins Public, together with local residents and students.

Jonathan Mills, director of the Edinburgh International Festival, will be celebrating the launch with artists Michael Lin, Apolonija Sustersic and Richard Wright and curator Katrina Brown.

Mr Lin, who is from Tokyo, designed a 13-metre wide work of floral art made of plywood in Princes Street Gardens. He was assisted by art students from the college.

Ms Sustersic has created a "secret garden" in Chessel's Court, off the Royal Mile, with the help of families living in the area. It features specially designed furniture and a herb garden, and was created with advice from the Scottish Allotment Gardens Society.

The exhibition marks the Festival's first visual arts strand for 17 years.

Councillor Steve Cardownie, Edinburgh's festivals and events champion, said: "This exhibition, which incorporates our famous gardens, our scenic walkways and our fascinating historic buildings will be one to look out for."