SOUTHEND city centre has been transformed into a wave of colour and vibrancy after the first day of an exciting festival.

New life has been breathed into dreary and dull buildings as part of the Southend City Jam running this weekend.

Organisers say Friday went “off with a bang” as Southend prepares to visit more than 200 artists throughout the event.

Pictures snapped in the city centre have now shown off the brilliant work carried out by talented artists.

Echo: Project - work continues on a creative piece of artwork Project - work continues on a creative piece of artwork (Image: Visit Southend)

Echo: Eagle eyed - the city centre is being brought to life by the festivalEagle eyed - the city centre is being brought to life by the festival (Image: Visit Southend)

Echo: Watchful eye - a remarkable piece of artworkWatchful eye - a remarkable piece of artwork (Image: Visit Southend)

They include detailed portraits of people, impressions of nature and other abstract designs.

So far, giant walls, temporary hoardings and huge black boxes have been brought to life with the vibrant street art.

Many of the murals will stay in place once the festival has concluded and it is hoped the City Jam legacy will live on throughout the year until the next event.

Echo: Vibrant - a house in the city centre is brought to life by this artVibrant - a house in the city centre is brought to life by this art (Image: Visit Southend)

Echo: Yellow - bright colours have livened up our cityYellow - bright colours have livened up our city (Image: Visit Southend)

The festivities will continue until tomorrow and will see live music played in High Street and at Southend Pier.

A cocktail bar at Pier Piazza where revellers can also grab a slice of pizza will also be running until 5pm.