VENUES TO THE WEST, SOUTH & NORTH OF DOWNTOWN

1. American Traders
257 Marlboro Rd., (802) 254-1300, www.amtraders.com
CLOSING AT 6 on Gallery Walk night; stop by early on your way into town or visit during regular business hours. We feature Wooden Canoes -- including a birch-bark beauty made by Michael Kohout of Dummerston -- and Refurbished Canoe Motors (a 1919 Evinrude inboard Rushton and several 1920s and '30s models by Evinrude, Johnson, and Neptune), plus Outdoor Furniture and Art: Photographs by Andrea Wallens Powell include nature studies, landscapes, and works from two barn series. Also exhibited are Adirondack lamps and prints by Robert Stump; abstract drawings and paintings by Susan Osgood; folkart fish carvings by New York artist Bob Francis; and hand-riven Windsor chairs by Bijan Fard of Williamsville. Open daily 10 to 5:30, Gallery Walk & Sat. till 6, Sun. by appt.

2. Gillies Restaurant
911 Western Ave., across from the green in West Brattleboro, (802) 251-0506
Featured art includes original oils on canvas by Ron Karpius with Vermont landscapes, Maine seascapes, still lifes (and for the collectors, colorful roosters). Other Karpius works include two hand-hammered copper and brass sculptures: a life-size nautical weathervane and a praying mantis with a 40-inch wingspan, both honored at the Stratton Arts Festival of 1998. Delightful, affordable photographs of the ocean and of roses by artist Mia Scheffey are the perfect pick-me-up gift for your home or a friend! Also on display is a portrait of the restaurant by Paul Sebring, a collection of 1950s-era watercolors by Nicolas Apgar, and works by other local artists. A full-fare menu features fresh seafood (lobster a specialty), beef, chicken, ribs and kids' meals, as well as the area's only Half-Shell Raw Bar. Beer, wine and fine spirits available. Monday is Ladies' Night, Thursday is Men's Night. Open Mon.-Sat. 4-9, Sundays, 4-8.

3. C.X. Silver Gallery
814 Western Ave., (802) 257-7898 or (802) 579-9088, www.cxsilvergallery.com
The triple exhibition of China, Tibet & Hiroshima continues through May, daily from 9 am to 9 pm by appointment and chance: (1) "Infinity Within: Contemporary Chinese Art of Xi Cai" features six-foot canvases that translate principles of Chinese painting into new calligraphic abstractions. Cai combines traditional channeling of inner energy, flow, and movement (known as qigong and t'ai chi) with Chinese painting techniques using mops and trowels as "brushes." (2) Kiri Paintings (fabric collage) from Hiroshima's aftermath were created by young women at a Japanese high school. (3) Tibetan Painting by Chuntui Lama, a third-generation Nepali thangka artist, continue to fascinate exhibit visitors. Other Gallery events: Tuareg Silverwork by Ahmed Landi is scheduled to be at the Gallery for 10 days starting the last week of the month; call for exact dates of exhibition and reception. Films from Kyrgyzstan will be shown on May 13 & 17. Other Asian culture events: Children's Day Festival, May 18, 1-4 pm atop Memorial Park at the Kiwanis Shelter, Brattleboro.

4. Neumann Studios Architectural Stained Glass
in the old Swedish Church at 30 Strand Ave., (802) 251-9901, www.neumannstudios.com
Liza King and Rick Neumann are displaying a number of British Arts & Crafts-style windows (including a Quarry window series), their "Wild Rose" window, and a new project (you'll have to stop in to see what it is!). Note earlier hours: Open 4-7 in order to allow for the windows to be shown in natural light. Strand Ave. is now open from the top again for the warm season, so is accessible either from Western Ave. via Crosby St., across from Solar Hill, or from Williams St. via West St.

5. Katrina-Gianna Studio
160 Fairview Street, (802) 254-9712, www.kg-fineart.com
Figurative works in oil by Katrina Wilson and landscapes in oil by Gianna Robinson are featured. Stop by to meet the artists during Gallery Walk, May 2, 5:30 to 8 pm, and enjoy hors d'oeuvres and beverages. The studio is otherwise open by appointment; contact Katrina at (802) 254-9712 or Gianna at (802) 365-7100.

6. Donald B. Watt Library at the School for International Training
Kipling Rd., about 1 mi. from Black Mtn. & Putney Rd., (802) 258-3389 Julie
"Amman Imman: Water is Life" is an exhibit about the peoples of the Azawak Valley in Niger, West Africa, with photography and narrative by Ariane Alzhara Kirtley. It follows a young girl's journey in this Sahelien valley to find a most basic human need -- water -- and examines how the photographer is working to reverse their plight. The exhibit continues through May 30. Library hours: Mon.-Fri. 8-10, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-10.

7. Brattleboro Clayworks
532 Putney Rd. (below Friends of the Sun), (802) 254-9174, www.brattleboroclayworks.com
CCV Brattleboro's Spring Ceramics I class presents an exhibit of clay sculpture and handbuilt or wheel-thrown pottery by Latisha Akley, Michelle Campbell, Heather Cleveland, Scott Dixon, Amy Maguire, Andrew Martin, Kaela Nadeau, Sherrell Osborn, and Stephanie Salasin. This "for one night only" exhibit and reception is open from 5:30 to 8 during Gallery Walk on May 2. Also on exhibit is a large selection of work by the Clayworks' 14 members. Showroom hours: Fri. & Sat. 10-5, as well as by chance or appt. Clayworks offers classes, workshops, and rental space.

DOWNTOWN VENUES

8. "Take a Moment for Peace
in the parlor at Centre Congregational Church, 193 Main St., (802) 258-3858 Margo
5:30-6 pm - Peace Celebration: Gallery Walkers of all faiths and persuasions are warmly welcomed into the church parlor to share in a brief celebration of peace. The program this month will be led by Marion and Peter Abell and Joanna Rueter of Centre Congregational Church in solidarity with our sister church in Cabanitas, El Salvador and in appreciation of the rich cultures of Central America.

9. First Baptist Church
190 Main St., (802) 254-9566 office, Pastor Sue: (603) 363-4228
Gallery Walk Open House featuring work by local artists Olen Givens and Paul Mansur on Friday, May 2. Renowned for his artistry, Olen is displaying handcrafted stained-glass creations. Paul offers breathtaking photographs of the Brattleboro area, including scenic views, rivers, pastures, flowers, and more. Music and singing are also featured. The children of First Baptist have made prayer flags for visitors to write names of those they would like lifted in prayer -- for summer display on the church lawn. Homemade pastries, desserts, and beverages are offered for a free-will donation to support renovations at the church.

10. Blue Moose Gift & Craft Gallery
29 High St., (802) 246-2000, www.shopbluemoose.com
Experience the Moose! It's teeming with color and great ideas. This ever-changing, fun, and funky store features amazing local and American craft, cutting-edge European home accessory and giftware items from top innovative designers and manufacturers, as well as many products that are as good for the environment as they are to use. Browse the Blue Moose's collection of pottery, ceramics, glass, jewelry and garden art. Take the experience Mon.-Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-5, and Sun. (Sept.-Dec.) 11-5; open on Gallery Walk until 8.

11. Café Lotus
29 High St. (enter through Blue Moose or the next doorway heading up the sidewalk), (802) 254-6245
Experience summer early. Diane DiVenere is May's featured artist. Her oils and pastels include colorful, exuberant still-lifes and luminous, summertime landscapes. The café offers casual dining with an international flair, Mon.-Fri. 8-6, Sat. 9-5.

12. Maharishi Invincibility Center
24 High St., (802) 246-1020
Richard Dalby's work has appeared in calendars and select shows, was featured in the March issue of Vermont Commons, and can also be seen at www.dalbyimages.com. This month he is exhibiting a number of his stunning images from nature and scenes of New England. His "zoom" collection features natural optical abstractions that emphasize color and texture. He also is showing a collection of prints on the history of yogic "flying" from ancient texts.
The Center offers organic cotton clothing and linens, a full line of Ayur-Veda herbal preparations known for their purity and effectiveness. Gallery Walk patrons will be treated to Ayur Veda teas and a taste of award-winning rose petal preserves and Vedic Organic Honey, produced with special care on farms in poverty-removal programs around the globe.

13. Dragonfly Dry Goods
136 Main St. (corner High & Main), (802) 257-0099
This purveyor of fine home goods and gifts for all ages specializes in textiles, toys, rugs, pottery and books from here and abroad, including a large collection of pottery, prints, and journals designed by Barre, VT artist Beth Mueller.

14. A Candle in the Night
181 Main St., (802) 257-0471, www.acandleinthenight.com
Ahren Ahrenholz presents new mixed-media objects and sculpture through June 2. He is also represented in "In the Zone ll," an exhibit running through August 3 at the Brattleboro Museum & Art Center.
Joining the gallery's offerings for the remainder of 2008 are two area potters: Stephen Procter offers monumental wheel-thrown vessels and planters that celebrate the beauty of the fired clay itself. His unglazed surfaces emphasize the elemental nature of the medium and the lines of the pots as compositions. Most pieces are 24 to 36 inches tall, giving them a sense of presence that challenges viewers to regard them as equals. William "Willie" Finkel began studying pottery as a home-school project and after seven years moved his work to Brattleboro Clayworks. He specializes in functional fine pots using rich glazes to enhance their beauty. His pieces are remarkably sophisticated for a young man of 15 who will be entering Marlboro College this fall. Also showing is work by assemblage artist Larry Simons; photographer Torie Olson; and painter Naomi Lindsey.
Several times during Gallery Walk evening, a representative of the Barakat Foundation will give a 20-minute PowerPoint presentation about the schools and literacy programs they run in India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.
Regular Hours: Fri. 10-8; Mon.-Thu. & Sat. 10-6, Sun. 12-5.

15. Celebrating Local Agricultural Legends
Robt. H. Gibson River Garden, 157 Main St., Info: (802) 257-0249, www.strollingoftheheifers.com
5:30 to 7 pm, Multimedia Event: In response to popular demand, the Strolling of the Heifers (SOTH) organization is again hosting this multimedia tribute to some of southern Vermont's farmers for their contributions to the agricultural field. Two accomplished local artists -- composer and musician Zeke Hecker and photographer Michael Hanish -- have created a charming production that highlights the proud heritage of 10 farm families and the role they play in making Vermont such a special place to live. If you missed it the first time around, here's another chance to see this celebration of our area's farmers who have been involved in every aspect of agriculture, from dairy to horticulture.

16. Hooker-Dunham Theater & Gallery and Youth Gallery
139 Main St., down alley and downstairs, (802) 254-9276, www.hookerdunham.org
The annual In-Sight Photography Project Student Show is featured in May. Chosen from among thousands of photographic images, this exhibit features the most singular and accomplished work by In-Sight students in the last year. From traditional black-and-white silver gelatin prints to inkjet prints from our digital students, each print is as unique as the student who made it. Until students are invited to share their achievements with the community, In-Sight's great task -- to help youth find their own voice and a place in society through the medium of photography -- remains incomplete. For more about In-Sight, call (802) 251-9960 or visit www.insight-photography.org. Opening reception 5 to 8 pm during Gallery Walk. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-3 pm, during events at the Theater & Gallery, and by appointment. Call for other hours.
The Youth Gallery is showing paintings from the River Gallery School's Subscription Art Program, in which carefully selected children's artwork is framed and made available to area businesses and individuals in exchange for a donation of $100 for one year. These tax-deductible contributions to the Children's Scholarship Fund help many talented young people in the community participate in RGS programs. For more information, please contact the school at (802) 257-1577.

17. Catherine Dianich Gallery
139 Main St., off alleyway foyer of Hooker-Dunham Building, (802) 254-9076, www.catherinedianichgallery.com
"Five Years," a survey of work by Myles Danaher in several types of media, debuts a group of oil paintings from the past year, as well as pastels and smaller studies and one-of-a-kind letterpress lino cuts printed in the studio at Great River Arts Institute. A native Vermonter, Danaher earned a degree in fine art from the Portland School of Art (1983) and has lived in Brattleboro for the past 20 years. In 2003, he received a fellowship from Wolf Kahn to attend the Vermont Studio Center. This show continues through April 30. Opening reception 5:30-8:30 pm during Gallery Walk, with music by guitarist Steve Carmichael. The Dianich Gallery is open Thurs.-Sat. 12-5 and by appointment.

18. Gallery in the Woods & Dante's Infurniture
145 Main St., (802) 257-4777, www.galleryinthewoods.com
Featured during May and June are a one-woman show for Burlington artist Cristine Cambrea and a current collection of visionary sculpture in wood from the artists of the Oaxaca Valley in Mexico.
"Little Seedling: Cristine Cambrea, Vermont Transplant" presents Cambrea's paintings, which, from a distance may look like a "confusing mass of abstraction. But," says the artist, "step into the painting and move your eyes around, stopping every few inches, and you will see worlds inside of worlds, each with their own uniqueness. If there were a special camera or glasses we put on to see people and things not just by their physical attributes but also see their experiences, their troubles, their sicknesses, their connectedness or lack of to everything else around them, I think it would look very similar to one of my paintings. I don't draw what a person looks like; I draw a map of those experiences, feelings, and energy and the relationship between their physical, emotional, and energetic environments."
"Alibrijes: Animals of Dreams," a large collection of work from the Oaxaca Valley, is a sweeping representation of the major woodcarving artists of this region of Mexico, especially featuring Zeni Fuentes and family, and Sergio Santiago Hernandez and family. The region is known for its orientation to fantastic realism and mythic surrealism. For these artists, animals are the stuff of dreams, since in the Oaxaca region there are no longer very many animals to draw from life. The detailed surface painting is derived from European ceramic brushwork techniques, with an influence in patterns from Zapotec embroidery and symbolism.
Reception for the artists on Friday, May 2, during Gallery Walk, 5:30-8:30. Regular Hours: Thurs.-Mon., 11-5:30.

19. In the Moment Music & Gifts
143 Main St., (802) 257-8171, itm@sover.net
Peace Through Music: Celebrating the shop's third year on Main Street, the window stage features Ben James and Bob Kannen, starting at 6 pm. This homegrown guitar and percussion duo presents electro-acoustic sound and rhythm, fully improvised -- East Africa, the Delta, downtown NYC, free jazz utopia . . . they wander around.
Album Cover Art gracing the walls and window display throughout May: Poster Art from Classic Rock 'n Roll Albums and beyond! Over the decades, special editions of LP recordings have included posters. Some of these now rare posters are on display, including the famous and sought-after Milton Glaser portrayal of Bob Dylan. Also Rolling Stones, Santana, and more!
Art Inside: 'For Peace' dress by Merideth Alex (window display); 'I Ask for Peace' painting by Rose Marks (inside wall as you enter); and an amazing stained-glass portrait of Billie Holiday by Liza King, centerpiece of a 'Billie' collage.
Thousands of great LPs! Open 'til 9.

20. Renaissance Fine Jewelry & Gallery
141 Main St., (802) 251-0600, www.vermontjewel.com
This month's featured jewelry designer is Michael Bruno, who combines natural beauty with a sense of simple elegance and fosters an ethic of environmental sustainability. Working amidst the Green Mountains of Vermont, he draws inspiration from his love of nature. Renaissance Fine Jewelry is also pleased to welcome Michael Bruno to its staff. A GIA-graduate gemologist with extensive experience in fabrication, stone grading and identification, quality control and retail sales, Michael will be available on Fridays for appraisals.
An exhibit of paintings by Brazilian artists Vera Beduski and Semy Braga continues. Beduski's wild imagination is inspired by symbolic forms and their hidden meaning, while painter, sculptor, and poet Braga is a self-taught artist inspired by the island where he lives in the south of Brazil.

21. Zephyr Designs
129 Main St., (802) 257-2788
Sarah Rice is exhibiting her photographs from past and present in the north window, and the front window in April presents an hommage to Magritte. Zephyr Designs is the place to go for all your art supply and picture framing needs.

22. Beadniks
115 Main St., (802) 257-5114
Work by three young artists is featured during May's Gallery Walk. Eight-year-old Axis Balsley-Petraska presents her collection of hand-drawn postcards in colored pencil and grease crayon. Sisters Ida and Tansy Robertshaw, 8 and 10, feature their handmade jewelry in glass and crystal. These wee folk have big inspirations and even loftier aspirations. Also available for your questions and curiosities is the "Minister of Minerals," Gabriel Godwyne, with his eclectic collection of Gems & Crystals. Many items are on sale to celebrate this kick-off to spring.

23. Amy's Bakery Arts Café
113 Main St., (802) 251-1071
Lesley Heathcote and Caryn King depict nature and animals in a figurative and narrative style, yet each artist has a unique perspective and personal vision. Heathcote has been painting birds in their natural surroundings, with attention to the interaction between animal and environment. King focuses more closely on her subjects, both animals and fruit, to create an intimate portrait of each subject. Artists' opening from 6 to 8 pm during Gallery Walk. Amy's offers European-style breads; soups, sandwiches, salads; specialty cakes, cookies, and other yummy treats on Mon.-Sat. 8-6, till 8 for Gallery Walk, and Sun. 9-5.

24. Gallery 2 at Vermont Artisan Designs
106 Main St., (802) 257-7044, www.buyvermontart.com
"Vermont Outbuildings," recent oil paintings by Paul G. Stone, are featured this month. Opening reception 6-8 pm on May 2, with live music by Clifford Rey. A portion of sales benefit the Arts Council of Windham County. Work by over 350 American artists and artisans is represented throughout the store. Open 7 days.

25. Weathervane Music Hall
19 Elliot St., (802) 258-6529, www.theweathervanemusichall.com
Marionettes handcrafted by "Puppet Pete" Syrotiak and David A. and David J. Syrotiak of the National Marionette Theatre are exhibited during May. Stop in during Gallery Walk to chat with Pete about this award-winning, international touring company, recognized as one of the finest marionette companies in the world today. The music schedule on Friday, May 2, features Bob Kalill from 6 pm and DJ Q beginning at 9 pm. On Saturday, May 3, South Mountain Pass performs from 9 pm.

26. Dot's Vermont Ride - A Benefit for Neighborhood Schoolhouse
Info table outside Everyone's Books, 23 Elliot St., (802) 257-5544 Officewww.neighborhoodschoolhouse.com
How far will a teacher go to help her kids? About 200 miles -- by bike! Stop by on your Gallery Walk tour to learn about kindergarten teacher Dot MacDonald's amazing three-day bike ride from the northernmost tip of Vermont all the way to the Brattleboro Common. Several teachers and Neighborhood families will join her on the trek, and all proceeds will fund scholarships and programming for students at the school. Chat with Dot and friends, buy a beautiful t-shirt, or find out how you can support the second annual May ride. Neighborhood Schoolhouse offers child-led academic programs for kids 3 to 11 years old.

27. Metropolis Wine Bar & Cocktail Lounge
55 Elliot St., (802) 254-1221
Details on May's featured artist were not available at press time. Stop in for a visual surprise. The bar offers light fare, signature cocktails and fine wines to quench your hunger and thirst. Open at 5 pm weekdays, 4 pm on Saturday and Sunday.

28. KidsPLAYce
20 Elliot St., (802) 254-5212, www.kidsplayce.org
A Gallery of Children's Book Art complements the KidsPLAYce Ice Cream Shoppe and indoor play space. This month local illustrator John Steven Gurney is exhibiting artwork from his picture book "Dinosaur Train" along with other illustrations created for books, magazines and puzzles. John's illustrations feature lively animals in humorous settings, delighting adults and children alike. Artist's reception, including refreshments, from 5:30 to 8:30 on Gallery Walk; ice cream also available for purchase. Daytime hours Mon.-Fri. 10-5, Sat. 11-5.

29. Nelson-Sayer Atelier
4 Elliot St., 2nd floor at the front
Carolyn Nelson and Marjorie Sayer are sharing a new studio space. On display are paintings in oil that include Carolyn's abstract expressions of "Off the Grid," incorporating light and color to create a series that embraces the colors of Spring. Marjorie's exploration of the figure presents people involved in creating art or the nude in repose with vibrant, impasto energy. Opening artists' reception from 5:30 to 8 pm on Gallery Walk, May 2.

30. Spencer-Tumavicus Art Studio
4 Elliot St., 2nd floor at the back
Ellen Tumavicus joins Kate Spencer for Gallery Walk on March 7. On display will be oil paintings featuring horses, cowboys, and flying chairs. Stop by for hot cider and fine art on the second floor to the back, back, back!

31. Through the Music Gallery & Studio
2 Elliot St. (out back at Turn It Up!), (802) 299-7869 Josh Steele, www.myspace.com/throughthemusicgallery
Paul Karras, Clare Emhiser, and LiA Sanders are featured artists in May. Karras is showing his small works of vibrant watercolors. Emhiser and Sanders are showing photography and photo-collage along with other types of prints. They have worked independently as well as collaboratively on what they are presenting this month. Some work featured in an April show of Works on Paper by Carrie Gelfan continues on exhibit. Opening reception during Gallery Walk on May 2, from 5:30 to 9:30 pm (we're open late!). If you can't make it during the Gallery Walk, stop by later in the month. The Karras, Emhiser, and Sanders exhibit is showing from May 2nd through the 28th. Visit online.

32. Mocha Joe's Café
82 Main St., (802) 257-7794, www.mochajoes.com
Artist Stephen Redmond is featured in May with a show entitled "Pigeon Spring." He writes, "I've been painting a view of the Brooks House roof in Brattleboro as the winter has slowly lapsed, recovered, and relapsed into Spring. Too early for dandelions and apple blossoms, or green grass, spring, from the studio window, looked more like ventilators and pigeons huddled for warmth against the driving snow, at times. Nevertheless these pigeons knew the planet was tilting inevitably, and so found much to look forward to." Redmond paints in oils and has been represented with one-man gallery shows in New Orleans, Sarasota, and East Arlington, VT, as well as in a number of major university exhibitions and at the Stratton Arts Festival. Gallery Walk reception from 6 to 8:30. Enjoy a great cup of Joe, an array of special seasonal drinks, and freshly baked treats.

33. The Artist's Loft Gallery
103 Main St., 3rd floor, (802) 257-5181, www.TheArtistsLoft.com
Since 1990, The Artist's Loft has presented oil paintings, watercolors and prints by William Hays. New works are shown here before they travel to the four galleries representing his work in the U.S. and Canada. The artist's travel experiences -- in New England, in Nova Scotia and in imagination -- are reflected in a breadth of subjects and media directly from the easel. Hays' works have been featured recently in "American Artist Magazine," "The Artist's Magazine," and "American Style Magazine."

34. Windham Art Gallery
69 Main St., (802) 257-1881, www.windhamartgallery.com
This month the front gallery presents "About Face," an exhibit of new work by Matthew J. Peake. The back gallery features part of a May/June exhibit of work by all of WAG's members, new and old, including this month: Amy Boemig, Stuart Copans, Trudy Crites, Ralph DeAnna, Kathie Gatto-Gurney, Jim Giddings, Judy Hawkins, Lesley Heathcote, Meredith Ingersoll, Steven Meyer, Petria Mitchell, Carolyn Nelson and Leonard Ragouzeos. These exhibits run through Sunday, June 1, with an opening reception 5-8 pm during Gallery Walk on Friday, May 2. Regular gallery hours are Thurs.-Sun. 12-5 and at other times by appt.
The face, a proverb states, is "the index of the mind." Peake says, "There is nothing more alluring, more captivating, more puzzling, more deceptive, and more compelling than the human face." For this exhibit, he painted portraits of subjects and then isolated certain aspects like the hair, eyes, nose and mouth before re-rendering each facial element individually, and larger-than-life, in oil on Plexiglas. Then he cut out these individual parts and suspended them with fishing line so that they hang as abstract assemblages, measuring 3 feet by 3 feet and larger, or as giant portrait-mobiles. "What resulted," Peake says, "was a tension between order and chaos; between front and back, surface and underpainting, matte and gloss, opaque and transparent. Metaphorically, the tensions we all feel in regarding a face." This is a departure for Peake who usually works with pastel on board.

35. Twice Upon a Time
63 Main St., (802) 254-2261, www.twicetime.com
Browse through antiques, collectibles and furniture from over 100 dealers, as well as a variety of consigned designer-label clothing from the past decade. 5 to 7 pm, Live Music by singer/songwriter Jennie Reichman, followed at 7 pm by a Drag Fashion Show featuring local men out to have some fun with MC extraordinaire Alfred Hughes, who will be dressing up, too! The Twicetime Antique Show at the Twicetime Auction Hall, 55 Marlboro Rd. in West Brattleboro, is on the first Saturday of every month from 10 to 4.

36. The Twilight Tea Lounge
51 Main St., (802) 254-8887, www.twilighttealounge.com
Stop by for a sip of tea and enjoy The Sights and Sounds of Bollywood -- '70s and '80s movie posters, courtesy of Adivasi, are complemented by vintage and contemporary Bollywood tunes from the Tea Lounge's music archives. Visit Adivasi at 8 Flat St. for poster purchases. The Tea Lounge is open for tea and treats until 10 pm Tues.-Sat., and Sun. till 8. Open late for Gallery Walk.

37. Thirty 9 Main
39 Main St., (802) 254-3999, www.thirtynine-main.com
Changing monthly with the season's bounty, an eclectic menu features French-Mediterranean inspired dishes for sharing, such as Beetroot Ravioli with Pea Purée, Truffled Steak Tartare, and Chicken Paillard Provençal. Thirty 9 Main also offers a $25 prix-fixe menu and is open for dinner Thursday through Monday from 5:30. Continuing featured artist Edward Acker, a New England-based photographer, is known for his black-and-white portraits of people. He specializes in families and children, weddings and events. Some new work has been installed to refresh the exhibit for May.

38. Brattleboro Museum & Art Center
10 Vernon St., (802) 257-0124, www.brattleboromuseum.org
Free Admission on Gallery Walk evening, with entertainment by local string band Wendy & The Lost Boys playing a vibrant, danceable mix of Irish, Old Time, Quebecois, and Appalachian music -- maybe with a splash of jazz or who-knows-what-else thrown in for fun.
Exhibits through August 3 include: "The Magic of Chris Van Allsburg" -- The illustrator of the popular, award-winning children's book "The Polar Express," is showing a diverse selection of original work in the Activity Gallery. "Inside/Outside" is a 19-minute video installation/environment by Walter Ungerer and Dianna Rust in the Mary Sommer Gallery. "In The Zone II," a juried exhibit chosen by Denise Markonish of Mass MoCA from among 300 artists within a 100-mile radius of Brattleboro, takes up the rest of the Museum's six galleries in a range of media including installation, sculpture, photography, and painting. Artists include: Ahren Ahrenholz of East Dummerston; Angelo Arnold of Johnson, VT; Harriet Caldwell of Harwinton, CT; Wylie Sophia Garcia of Burlington, VT; Tamara Kartheiser of Rindge, NH; David Kearns of Castleton, VT; Heidi Mario of Brattleboro; Julia Morgan-Leamon of Williamstown, MA; David Teng Olsen of Wellesley, MA; Alicia Renadette of Providence, RI; Lynn Richardson of Marlborough, NH; Jen Simms of Wendell, MA; and Jim Turbert of Jamaica Plain, MA. Regular Museum hours are 11 to 5 everyday except Tuesday; admission: $4 adults, $3 seniors, $2 students, free to members and children 6 and under.

39. Windham Wines & The Wine Gallery
30 & 36 Main St., (802) 246-6400, www.windhamwines.com
Paintings from the Oceanography series by Roger Sandes are featured through May. Sandes uses acrylic washes and glazes on gessoed mahogany or birch plywood panels. "My paintings are actually painted drawings. I assemble these images in ways that highlight their natural beauty and abstract form and integrate or synthesize elements of modern art and folk art, nature and artifact." His work has been exhibited widely in the U.S. as well as Mexico and England, and has been added to many private and major corporate collections. Windham Wines sells fine wine from around the world and is open Tue.-Thurs. 11-8 and Fri.-Sat. 11-9. The Wine Gallery offers more than 15 wines by the glass and light food to complement the wines. The Gallery opens Tues.-Sat. at 5.

40. River Gallery School
32 Main St., (802) 257-1577, www.rivergalleryschool.org
Work from the current Art & Meditation class is featured in May. Come feast your eyes on beautiful, insightful paintings and drawings by Beth Ann Betz, Simi Berman, Krishna Maples, Tom Robertson, Harriet Gassett, Stephanie Foy, Lindsey Knoepfel and Barbara Baker-Bury. Registration for summer classes is currently underway. See our new blog for more information: http://rivergalleryschool.wordpress.com/.

41. Latchis Theater & Latchis 4
48 Main St., (802) 254-1109
For Gallery Walk on May 2, Latchis 4 presents a room of art created and hosted by students at Compass School, which offers a successful alternative to mainstream high school education. A multimedia show of painting, drawing, sculpture, music, and film with a theme of current social issues fills the room, featuring this alternative in its most expressive form.
The Main Theater this month features work by Marilynn Buhlmann, whose prints and paintings invite the viewer to pause and appreciate a visual and sensual experience. They offer a resting place for the eye, an antidote to the difficult and painful happenings of the world, and encourage each viewer to open their eyes to the beauty that surrounds us. Marilyn's atmospheric landscapes and abstract expressionist paintings in oil on canvas were inspired by thoughts and dreams; and her monotype and intaglio/relief prints have a rich, textural nature. Open for browsing from 5:30-6:30 during Gallery Walk and otherwise as movie patrons or by appt.

42. Flat Street Brew Pub
6 Flat St., (802) 257-1911, www.latchis.com/restaurant.html
An exhibit of new works by local artist Rachel Brooks continues through May. Rachel is showing paintings and drawings using acrylic, chalk, and ink on canvas, paper, and wood. Highly involved with color, design, and form, this work explores self and nature. The Brewery offers 20 fine handcrafted ales and lagers on tap and a special menu of hearty pub food. Open 7 days from 4 pm to 12:30 last call.

43. In-Sight Photography Project
45 Flat St., Ste. 1, (802) 251-9960, www.insight-photography.org
"Reportage & Travel" -- Work by program director Eric Maxen is featured in May. Included are photos from Eric's tenure working as a photojournalist in the Chicago area as well travel images from around the world. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10:30-6:30, Gallery Walk till 8:30.

44. Vermont Center for Photography
49 Flat St., (802) 251-6051, www.vcphoto.org
"A Thin Line: Photographs by Leah Mae Dyjak" is the featured exhibit for May. Any life, even a young one, is marked by experiences with mortality and human fragility. Whether subtle or profound, we carry these marks within ourselves and in doing so realize our own momentary existence. Dyjak says, "I shoot what I believe to be the transitional space between two worlds, where spirit or energy may cross into visual reality." Using landscape and figures, Dyjak makes tangible this exploration. A resident of Greenfield, Mass., she received her BFA in Photography from Massachusetts College of Art in 2006. Dyjak has taught photography at The Brattleboro Retreat and Snow Farm, and is currently the Assistant Director of the In-Sight Photography Project in Brattleboro. Opening reception 5:30-8:30 during Gallery Walk on Friday, May 2. The exhibit closes on Sunday, May 31. Regular Gallery hours: Thurs., Sat. & Sun. 12-5, Fri. 2-7 pm, and by appt.

45. Experienced Goods Thrift Shop for Brattleboro Area Hospice
77 Flat St. (ground floor of the Transportation Center), (802) 254-5200
To celebrate May Magic come check out the selection of outdoor and sporting goods equipment. Purple tags are half price during May. The whimsical Alice in Wonderland window is still up, and a new Africa window is premiering. 6 pm, Live Music: Fiddling Tunes with Ned Phoenix & Friends.

46. Stone of Wisdom Gallery
20 Elm St., side entrance, (802) 257-7184, www.stoneofwisdom.com
Reopening for Spring with handcrafted jewelry and herbal products. Unique and custom-made jewelry designs, ranging from elegant to casual, draw from gemstones, fine silver, glass, wood, seeds, and more. Stone of Wisdom Herbal Products are pure, organic, and sustainably harvested and traded. They include luxurious and moisturizing body butters, herbal tinctures, elixirs, and tonics. The gallery also features a stunning array of stones and crystals, bulk teas and incense resins, ayurvedic herbal products from Tarika and Rising Rhythm Herbs, and award-winning organic dark chocolate from the Grenada Chocolate Company. Open Thurs. & Fri. 2-5 pm or by appointment, and on Gallery Walk till 8:30.

47. Dr. Rebecca M. Jones
138 Elliot St., Ste. 1, (802) 251-0958
The Hope Gallery features work by photographer Paul Miller, who has been active in the Brattleboro Camera Club for over 30 years and recently joined the Vermont Center for Photography. Now retired from owning and operating the Miller Farm in Vernon, he and his wife have been traveling around the world to help construct a school, churches, and a community service building. "We need to emphasize the many beautiful things around us rather than dwelling on the sordid reports that seem to dominate our lives. God has blessed us in so many ways." Stop by to learn how easy and beautiful it is to renovate "green" in this inspiring space, which serves as a Dermatology practice during the day.

48. Rueter Woodworking & Gallery
154 Elliot St., (802) 579-9309, www.rueterwoodworking.com
Work by area artisans, including Jason Breen, Philip Odegard, Bob Rueter, and Lee Bruder, is featured. Open till 8 on Gallery Walk. Refreshments served. Regular studio hours are Wed.-Sat., 12:30-5:30, and by appointment.

49. Twin Vixen Press
28 Williams St., Studio 1, 2nd floor, (802) 282-8722, twinvixenpress@gmail.com
The newest printmaking studio in Brattleboro features an exhibit of etchings by co-owners Briony Morrow-Cribbs and Helen O'Donnell. A Beginning Etching Class is coming up in May and June, and studio space rentals and press time are available to other print artists. Open late on Gallery Walk!

SPECIAL REGIONAL EXHIBITS

A. SE Vermont Welcome Center
I-91 North, about a mile before Exit 1
The Woodstove Gallery hosts paintings by Adrien "Yellow" Patenaude from Newport, Vt. Adrien uses vivid color to capture scenes of the Vermont countryside. May also showcases several artists represented at Vermont Artisan Designs & Gallery 2 in Brattleboro. Other displays feature work by a variety of Vermont artists and artisans, as well as a wide range of historical and informational material of potential interest to visitors and residents alike. Hours: 7 am to 11 pm daily.

B. Whetstone Studios & Gallery
28 Williams St., near base of Union Hill, (802) 251-0000 David Parker
Open House & Gallery Exhibit: This just-renovated, three-story building overlooking the picturesque Whetstone Brook, at the base of Union Hill, is ready for rental to artists seeking an inspiring in-town space in which to create their work. During Gallery Walk each month, the public is invited to tour the building's eight spacious studios and Whetstone Gallery, now showing work by Angela McGuire, Judy Hawkins, and Carol Keiser. Neumann Studios designed a stained-glass window in the 2nd floor hallway. Renovated garage spaces can be outfitted to accommodate large-scale sculpture. Custom storage and lighting will be provided for renters.