A public laneway in Farrer has been turned into a virtual outdoor art gallery by resident Ray Eshpeter, who lives next door and wants nothing more than to create a pleasant space for his neighbours and passers-by to enjoy.

There are paintings along his own side fence and others displayed on easels.

There are also sculptures of all kinds, statues and a huge rocking chair made from twisted teak from Thailand.

Mr Eshpeter, 63, has also planted trees and keeps the lawn regularly mown in what was once a nondescript thoroughfare, which leads up from Hawkesbury Crescent to the Farrer Ridge Nature Reserve.

And this little art oasis in the suburbs hasn't cost the taxpayers a cent.

''It keeps me out of the pubs,'' Mr Eshpeter said, with a smile. ''I don't expect anyone to give a reward. It's just something I do.''

But there is a more serious side to it.

Mr Eshpeter, a retired industrial safety engineer from Canada, who has lived in Farrer with his family for about 15 years, was also a dedicated volunteer in the paediatric ward at the Canberra Hospital. He eventually found the experience too emotionally wrenching and wanted another activity to direct his energy, while acknowledging the great work of the hospital staff.

So came the park and the paintings, some of which he does as a tribute to the children in the paediatric ward, trying to imagine the kind of paintings they would do.

Most of the paintings and other work have been in place for several months now, weathering the elements.

''There's been no vandalism, it's all extremely positive,'' he said.

''People come by and they sit and talk. I came out one day and saw a father and his children having lunch on the rocking chair.

''Some other young people told me they come here every fortnight or so to see what's changed and how much they like it.''

Another neighbour has asked if the laneway could play host to a community Christmas party in mid-December. Mr Eshpeter was bemused by the request.

''I said, 'It's not my park, it's your park. Just relax and enjoy it'. The only thing I asked is that I get an invitation,'' he said.