VENUES TO THE NORTH OF DOWNTOWN

1. The Marina Restaurant
28 Spring Tree Rd. (down behind 464 Putney Rd. - where the West River meets the Connecticut), (802) 257-7563, www.vermontmarina.com
Work by Vermont's Tina Olsen, who provides botanical illustrations for Southern Exposure Seed Exchange in Virginia, has been added to abstract and representational paintings by Martha Dolan and "Farm Art" by Georgie, Janet Picard, Deborah Lazar, and Caryn King -- whose inspiration comes from the Vermont agricultural landscape and barnyard animals. A portion of Farm Art sales supports Strolling of the Heifers programs. Gallery Walk "munchies" available from 5 to 6:30 for visitors stopping in to catch the art en route to downtown. The Marina Restaurant is a casual waterfront eatery with a sunset view; open 7 days 11:30 to 10, Sunday Brunch served from 10 to 1.

VENUES TO THE WEST OF DOWNTOWN

2. C.X. Silver Gallery & Dim Sum Teahouse
814 Western Ave., (802) 257-7898 or (802) 579-9088, www.cxsilvergallery.com
Exhibitions -- open year-round by appointment -- include luminous landscapes, portraits, the Wu Ji (Infinity Within) series of abstract performance painting using mops and trowels as brushes, and the ongoing multimedia Pink Slip Project (further details at pinkslipproject.tumblr.com). Also showing Le Xi's video art (more at lexistudio.com) and Chinese paintings of Xi Hua (1927-2007). Dim Sum Dining & Catering at the Gallery daily by appointment. Inquiries and reservations: (802) 257-7898, ext. 2 or 3; or (802) 579-9088.

3. BMH Benefit Holiday Sale & "Yo-Yo" Art at Crosby House
175 Western Ave., (802) 257-7145, www.crosbyhouse.com
5 to 8:30 pm for Gallery Walk on Dec. 6: The BMH Auxiliary's Holiday Creations -- two-foot trees and wreaths exquisitely decorated and sparkling with lights -- are offered for sale in a lovely Victorian setting: elegant trees, country trees, new-baby trees, seashore trees, lemon trees, girl or boy trees, sport trees, and more. Choose a favorite for your home or for gift-giving. Proceeds benefit the BMH Mammography Department. Also featured are "Yo-Yo" Art pieces made by Pearl Doubleday from gathered circles of colorful fabrics embellished with pearls, buttons, bows, and glittery bits. Items in seasonal and other themes can be custom-designed for one-of-a-kind gifts and personalized decor. Come browse, buy, and enjoy light refreshments.

VENUES IN OR NEAR DOWNTOWN

4. Whetstone Studio for the Arts
28 Williams St., (802) 579-9797 Hannah, thewhetstonestudioforthearts.tumblr.com
Whetstone Open Studios, 5-7 pm on Gallery Walk for Adrienne Ginter: paintings, etchings, multi-layered handcut paper, jewelry; Sage Feldman: paintings, cards; Naomi Goldie: paintings, prints; Stacy Morse (1952-2012): retrospective exhibit with some new paintings; Meaghan Fagley: Photography; and David Parker: sawn redwood roots; as well as an installation of artwork in Studio 3 by students at SIT's Graduate Institute that reflect the diversity on campus. Also stop by The Root Social Justice Center, a physically and financially accessible space for all ages, identities, and abilities -- 802-254-3400, www.therootsjc.org.

5. Pine Heights
187 Oak Grove Ave., (802) 257-0307, www.PineHeightsBrattleboro.com
Opening Reception, 5 to 7 pm during Gallery Walk on Dec. 6 for an exhibit of Sequencing artwork by residents at Pine Heights Center for Nursing & Rehabilitation. The painting process of Sequencing lends itself to people with disabilities. Local artist and teacher Marilyn Allen, from River Gallery School of Art, has guided and encouraged her Pine Heights students in producing some very beautiful paintings. Stop by to enjoy the show and light refreshments.

6. Brattleboro Museum & Art Center
10 Vernon St., (802) 257-0124, www.brattleboromuseum.org
FREE ADMISSION during Gallery Walk, 5:30 to 8:30 pm. Exhibits include:VT Kids Design Glass II: Imaginary creatures drawn by kids and transformed into glass sculptures by professional artists.... Our Fragile Home: A multimedia installation by Pat Musick, based on astronauts' impressions of Earth.... Cosmic Geometry: A suite of 16 prints by Vermont artist Sabra Field.... Jerry's Map: Jerry Gretzinger's richly detailed, ever-expanding map of an imaginary world.... Also, explore the use of chance operations to create art in the new hands-on exhibit, Your Space: Chance, inspired by Jerry's Map. Gift Shop sale table 40% off! Regular Hours: Sun.-Thurs. 11-5 (closed Tues.), Fri. 11-7, Sat. 10-5. Admission: $8-$6-$4, free for BMAC members and children under 6.

7. Whetstone Station Restaurant & Brewery
36 Bridge St., (802) 490-2354, www.whetstonestation.com
Greenfield artist Kate Marion Lapierre creates mixed-media abstract paintings on canvas and wood using acrylics with other textural elements such as plaster, paper, cardboard, or pumice. Horizontal lines of color suggest landscapes, but the primary focus is on the elements of color and texture. "My paintings are created in a layering process, becoming more detailed as the work is completed. Though I title the paintings, I want each viewer to connect with and interpret them on a personal level." Her work has been exhibited widely in Massachusetts and Vermont. Visit online: www.katemarionlapierre.com. Open daily 11:30 to 10, Fri. & Sat. till 11.

8. Twilight Tea Lounge
41 Main St. - Lower Level (enter directly from Arch St. hill), (802) 254-8887, www.twilighttealounge.com
An exhibit of relief prints and paintings by Wallingford, Vt. artist Jon Surette continues in December. Surette's work is a play between abstraction and representation that is explored through color, shape, and space manipulations. Relief prints are the oldest form of expression in printmaking; their directness and simplicity serve to inform the paintings. Teas and treats served until 10 pm for Gallery Walk. Regular hours: Sun.-Mon. 12-6, Tues.-Wed. 12-8, Fri.-Sat. 12-10.

9. River Gallery School of Art
32 Main St., (802) 257-1577, www.rivergalleryschool.org
Sales of the Angels, Beasts, Shepherds & Kings on exhibit during December support the Children's Scholarship Fund. This annual holiday-time fundraiser, which started more then a decade ago, is kicked off with a November workshop where children and adults make creatures for the cause. Folks are also welcome to come during December to make an angel or beast for the sale. Stop by during Gallery Walk to enjoy the amazing handmade creations, festive lights, and holiday refreshments; the sale continues through the month when the school is open. Check out the RGS "clothesline" exhibit of kids' art at The Works Bakery Café, 118 Main St.

10. Latchis Theatre & Gallery 4
50 Main St., (802) 254-1109, www.latchis.com
A. LATCHIS 4 GALLERY: "Sisters" features digitally enhanced photography by Laura Isabella and nature, landscape, and macro photography by Andréa Wallens Powell, who is also showing a few paintings and sharing poetry. Available only during the Gallery Walk opening are 2014 Art Calendars and cards with images by Vermont artists whose works have graced recent Friends of Music at Guilford program books and posters -- William Hays, Deborah Lazar, Susan Bull Riley, Karen Becker, Deedee Jones, and Evelyn McLean, among others; proceeds support FOMAG concerts and outreach. Gallery hours during movie showings and by appointment: (802) 257-0033 Andrea Powell.
B. HOTEL LOBBY: Celebrating five years at the Latchis and the Main Theatre's renovation, Brattleboro artist Barbara Baker-Bury presents "A Stitch in Time ..." -- new oil paintings on paper and canvas. A portion of proceeds from sales will be donated to the ongoing renovation, which includes new gallery lighting. The show runs through January 31, with an opening reception on December 6 from 5 to 6:30. The exhibit is open daily for browsing, for movie and event patrons, and by appointment. Limited-edition giclée prints are also available. For more info, contact Barbara at (802) 257-1029 or bbb80@comcast.net; visit online at www.barbarabakerbury.com.

11. Flat Street Brew Pub
6 Flat St., (802) 257-1911, www.flatstreetbrewpub.net
Featured through December, Steven Leal's new painting series was inspired by numerical patterns in horseracing results. Steven has always been interested in finding patterns where none seem to exist. He spends a large portion of his free time documenting these patterns on paper graphs with pencils that constantly need sharpening. By taking a step back, looking at the mountains of paperwork, Steven has found humor and beauty in creating images with his results. Offering 20 fine handcrafted ales and lagers on tap, wine, spirits, and delicious pub fare. Open Tues.-Thurs. 4-11, Fri. & Sat. 4-12:30, Sun. 3-10.

12. Pop-Up Brattleboro
8 Flat St. in former Adivasi storefront, www.poopupbrattleboro.com
THREE DAYS ONLY: This guerrilla-effort art exhibition -- for artists, by artists -- features local artists of all ages, genres, styles, mediums, and experience. The exhibit will showcase photography, paintings, ceramics, printmaking, illustration, sculpture, video/audio installation, and just about every other medium imaginable. Festive opening reception with live music on Friday, Dec. 6, from 4 to 9 pm. The exhibit will also be open from 12 to 5 on Sat., Dec. 7, and Sun., Dec. 8. More details online.

13. Larry Carlson Studio
24 Flat St., 2nd fl., larrycarlsonstudio@gmail.com, larrycarlsonstudio.com
Opening Reception 5-8:30 during Gallery Walk for the new gallery of renowned visionary artist Larry Carlson, featuring his surreal, psychedelic, and whimsical landscapes. Original photographs are transformed through Larry's pioneering techniques into dreamscapes bridging the real world and the deep imagination. This series of digital pigment prints on canvas is both affordable and completely unusual -- perhaps the perfect thing for someone on your holiday list. Stop in for a dose of psychedelia! Preview the exhibit at larrycarlsonstudio.com.

14. In-Sight Photography Project
45 Flat St., Ste. 1, (802) 251-9960, www.insight-photography.org
Portraits by Luci Hauty are featured. Luci built a portfolio around a consistent theme through an In-Sight Independent Study, learning to edit her work, build upon her theme, and prepare the work for exhibition. "I chose photographing people because I think every person looks interesting, and I want to capture that. The purpose of having a portrait exhibition is to see the variety of people together." Opening Reception during Gallery Walk, 5:30-8:30 pm. The In-Sight Photography Project is committed to giving local youth the tools for creative self-expression, regardless of the ability to pay. Otherwise open Mon.-Fri. 9:30-5:30.

15. Cynthia-Reeves New England
47 Flat St., (802) 579-1029, www.cynthia-reeves.com
This "pop-up" gallery, open for a six-month run, features the exhibition CHOATE/CHAOS, showing work by Shen Chen, Michael Mulhern, Lee Jung Woong, Magdelena Fernandez, Oliver Marsden, and George Sherwood. The tension between the two states is explored by these international artists through their respective medium of painting, video, or sculpture. Regular Hours: Tues.-Sat. 10-5. Cynthia-Reeves New England has been exhibiting innovative contemporary artwork in the region since 1995. After seven years in Hanover, the business returns to Walpole in the summer of 2014.

16. Vermont Center for Photography
49 Flat St., (802) 251-6051, www.vcphoto.org
VCP members are its greatest gifts! In December the annual Holiday Members' Exhibition showcases a sampling of works from over 100 exhibiting members, ranging vastly in photographic background and style. This year's exhibit features work by Jeffrey Carmichael of Dummerston. Opening Reception on Fri., Dec. 6, 5:30-8:30 during Gallery Walk. Visit online for full details and list of participants. Exhibit ends December 29. Gallery Hours otherwise: Fri./Sat./Sun. 12-5 pm and by appointment.

17. Hope Gallery at Elliot St.Café
134 Elliot St., (802) 246-1251, www.facebook.com/ElliotStreetCafe
OPEN 5 to 7 PM FOR GALLERY WALK: Pioneer Valley-based artist Brantner DeAtley is showing his jazz-inspired collages. DeAtley earned a diploma from the School of the Museum of Fine Arts and a BFA from Tufts. His work is in public and private collections nationwide and is represented at The Oxbow Gallery in Northampton, Mass. "My work is a slow evolution.... Layers of time, influences, and ideas captured and filtered through the speed of life. Combining and re-interpreting inspiration as the paintings grow." The café is otherwise open Wed.-Sun. 8:30-2:30 and offers a book-swap shelf and ping-pong for patrons.

18. Artrageus 1
57 Elliot St., (724) 650-7011 Nick, artrageus1.biz (that's the number one!)
Gayle Weitz focuses on making carved and painted wooden cabinets and containers. Her work reflects a personal aesthetic leaning toward the functional, with lots of detail and a bit of humor. Her recent series "Humanimals" contains thirteen life-size cabinets addressing the relationship between humans and other animals, particularly the issue of speciesism -- the "right" humans have to dominate, oppress, and/or exploit other animals. The gallery sells Tiny Footprint Coffee to fund reforestation in Ecuador's Mindo Cloudforest, and books focused on history, phenomenology, and social theory. Open Tues.-Thurs 10-5, Fri.-Sat. 11-7, Sun. 11-4, and Gallery Walk till 8:30 or later.

19. Metropolis
55 Elliot St., (802) 254-8500
Recent sketches in various media, including oil, pastel, charcoal, and silver point, by fine artist and goldsmith Seth Thomas Bordonaro are featured in December. Sing Sing Swing will be playing from 8 to 11 on Gallery Walk night, with Scott Sizer, Rob Fletcher, and Draa Hobbs performing swing songs and standards from the Great American Songbook, tunes from the 20s to the 40s, Frank Sinatra classics, bossa novas, and more.

20. Tulip Café
12 Harmony Pl., (802) 490-2061
Gallery Walk reception, 5-6 pm: Pathways Vermont's Housing First program presents "Vista," visual art by program participants and staff. Within Brattleboro are many communities, some more visible than others. This exhibit invites artists and viewers to see and be seen as part of a wide and beautiful landscape changing at every turn. Artists set their own prices and keep all sales proceeds. Pathways Vermont advocates for the rights of people to live without stigma and discrimination, and promotes civil rights, community integration, health care, affordable housing, and employment for all. Hours otherwise: Mon.-Fri. 7-5, Sat.-Sun. 9-5; kitchen closes at 4.

21. Elliot St. Fish, Chips & More
50 Elliot St., (802) 451-0074
December features artwork by Ben Keating and the Clustermind Collaborative, which gathers weekly to create unique multi-artist pieces with vibrant color waves, psychedelic imagery, and found objects. The collective is dedicated to inspiring the community to take an experiential journey bringing form to the unseen. If there's a line to the door, you know it's worth the wait to order falafel and fries, fish & chips, salads, and wraps, and perhaps grab a beer -- Vegan and Gluten-free options are available. No GMO, no hydrogenated oil, no corn syrup. Yes fun! Open Tues.-Thurs. 12-3, 5-8; Fri. & Sat. 12-3, 5-9.

22. Community Forum Space & Pop-Up Record Shop
17 Elliot St., 2nd fl., (617) 642-5891 Ron, www.spiritoforr.com
The FORUM is centered around one of the instant sculptures that Ron Schneiderman sometimes creates as a member of the rock music collaborative Sunburned Hand of the Man. These structures have now evolved with the addition of videos from a dozen artists and a soundtrack taken from Ron's Estey Field Organ Tone Archive project. This show, which includes B&W photos of the Brattleboro Time Machine, was featured at the Festival of Endless Gratitude in Copenhagen in August as part of a DIVA artist residency. Limited-edition prints available. The Pop-Up Record Shop features CD-Rs produced for Ron's Blueberry Honey label, and a range of underground LPs.

23. Leigh Niland's Studio
4 Elliot St. #7, 2nd fl., (603) 313-7569, www.leighniland.com
SHOWING THROUGH DECEMBER 7 ONLY -- India Pictures: Recent Paintings, Drawings and Sculpture resulted from a three-month 2012 "India Teaching Residency" awarded to the artist by The Prince's Drawing School in London. Leigh's contemporary artwork includes an inflatable sculpture short-listed for the 2012 Solo Award by London's WW Gallery. Ink drawings -- made on tussar silk collected in Old Delhi markets -- depict a trip up the Rohtang Pass in the Himalayas, and gouache drawings on paper bags recall the art of Indian miniature painting while commenting on cycles of wealth and poverty in an emerging market. Open Fri.-Mon. 10-6 and by appointment.

24. Mocha Joe's Café
82 Main St., (802) 257-7794, www.mochajoes.com
Jason Alden is exhibiting drawings, paintings, and sketchbooks in December. Jason is an oil painter and teacher at River Gallery School in Brattleboro. Jason will be on hand from 6 to 8:30 during Gallery Walk. Stop by to enjoy the artwork, a cup of Mocha Joe's own freshly roasted coffee, and delicious pastries.

25. Vermont Artisan Designs & Gallery 2
106 Main St., (802) 257-7044, www.vtart.com
Featured in December are photographs by Michael McDermott, contemporary glass by Josh Simpson, oil paintings by Janis Sanders, and animal paintings by Mary Iselin. Photographer McDermott was 20 when he captured a rare photo of J.D. Salinger, reclusive author of The Catcher in the Rye. Now, more than 30 years later, the first public showing of a limited-edition photogravure of that image is at Vermont Artisan Designs. McDermott, today a director and DP photographer in Portland, OR, was spotlighted in the recent multimillion-dollar documentary on Salinger. Meet Simpson and Sanders during Gallery Walk on Friday, Dec. 6. A portion of December sales will benefit the Brattleboro Heating Fund. Extended holiday hours at Vermont Artisan Designs and sister store Kitchen Sync. Visit online or stop by seven days a week to see works by more than 300 fine artists and craftspeople, many living nearby.

26. T-Bar Lift Benefit Sale at Galanes Vermont Shop
118 Main St., (802) 579-1871, http://worksbakerycafe.com
Living Memorial Park Snow Sports is selling cards and posters with Robert Chace's iconic 1957 painting of skiers at the park to support its work to maintain, improve, and operate the T-bar lift for both skiers and snowboarders. Back in 1997, this nonprofit, all-volunteer organization raised its start-up funds selling notecards and t-shirts with this same image; times have changed, but the joy of a winter outing remains! After Gallery Walk find cards and posters here and at Baker's Hallmark, Zephyr Designs, and Vermont Artisan Designs; cards only at the Food Co-op, Burrows Sports, Everyone's Books, Grafton Cheese Outlet, and Vermont Country Deli.

27. Works Bakery Café
118 Main St., (802) 579-1871, http://worksbakerycafe.com
Kathleen Carr, December's featured artist, has been practicing what she considers the "very magical and spiritual" art of photography for several years. This exhibit includes images in three categories: reflections, street photography, and landscape. The camera preserves the moment and creates an unexpected story; the images, while varying, each tell their own story, as well as a collective story. Also check out the "clothesline" exhibit of children's artwork from River Gallery School. The café serves Rainforest Alliance coffee, humanely raised meats, and poultry with no antibiotics or added hormones -- thoughtfully sourced, local when possible. Open daily 6 to 6, until 9 for Gallery Walk

28. David Walter Jewelry Studio
81 Main St., (802) 722-9620, www.davidwalterjewelry.com
David Walter produces one-of-a-kind, handmade, and bespoke jewelry in precious metals and gems, and specializes in the repair, restoration, modification, and repurposing of all fine jewelry. In addition to showcasing Walter's contemporary heirlooms, the studio's Master Craft Gallery mounts quarterly exhibits featuring uncommon, unique, and otherwise exceptional work by regional craftsmen. The current exhibit, "The Book and the Letter: Letterpress, Bookbinding and Print," features the work of local artisans Abigail Jones, Julia Ferrari, and Brian Cohen. Stop by to enjoy the journey from letter, to book, to print. The artists will be on hand during Gallery Walk to answer questions and discuss their work.

29. The Artist's Loft Gallery & B&B
103 Main St., 3rd floor, (802) 257-5181, www.theartistsloft.com
William H. Hays' unique multicolor linoleum-block prints are vibrant interpretations of the New England landscape and Brattleboro -- original and beautiful works of art at a very affordable price. Visitors can also see works underway in the artist's studio as well as oil and watercolor paintings of northeast landscapes. Open 10-6 daily and 24/7 onlinee.

30. Amy's Bakery Arts Café
113 Main St., (802) 251-1071
Robyn Weisel is a Westminster photographer whose delicately enigmatic monochrome images of frost crystals, snowflakes, ice-bound bubbles, and water droplets offer a compelling insight into the elegant and sensual architecture of Vermont winter landscapes. Amy's offers European-style breads; soups, sandwiches, salads; specialty cakes, cookies, and other treats; open Mon.-Sat. 8-6, till 8 on Gallery Walk, and Sun. 9-5.

31. Beadniks
115 Main St., (802) 257-5114, http://beadniksvt.com
Famous as the area's Stocking Stuffer Headquarters, Beadniks is brimming with lots of new and exciting gift ideas as well as all the old-time favorites: Toys for tots and adults, from Totoro to Twister ... Racks of beautiful new cards, journals, buttons, funky coffee mugs, and "New Yorker" cartoon magnets ... Loads of new crystals, gems, and jewelry ... And don't forget the beads and findings -- everything you need to create a special personal gift ... Craft kits, candy, and even Magnum P.I.'s personal helicopter ... If you lose your marbles this holiday, don't worry -- they've got more!

32. Kashmiri Handicrafts
143 Main St., on the sidewalk outside In the Moment, (802) 579-7877 Lexi, lexisworld@gmail.com
Alexandros (Lexi) Atsalis-Gogel is just back from an adventure in Kashmir. Lexi's first trip to India was filled with many rich experiences, and he is now home to share his stories and some beautiful merchandise: hand-embroidered suede bags and pouches, papier-mâché boxes and ornaments, incense, scarves, pure Kashmir wool shawls, and Sterling silver rings and earrings (the silver is still mined by hand). Stop by for a warm cup of tea during Gallery Walk.

33. Gallery in the Woods & Dante's Infurniture
145 Main St., (802) 257-4777, www.galleryinthewoods.com
Mark Brown's sculptural robots (8 in. to 6 ft.) inhabit "Creatures," December's featured exhibit. For over a decade, Brown has been making one-of-a-kind mixed-media sculptures and clocks, often collaborating with creative partner Susan Boss. Deeply inspired by Japanese robots and space toys of the Atomic era, Brown says, "When I started using found objects, focusing on robots was a natural shift." Combining textures and colors with tin containers, lids, tools, and toys from tag sales and flea markets gives each robotic invention a personality of its own. Showing through Feb. 4; opening reception on Dec. 6, 5-8 pm.

34. The Dianich Gallery
139 Main St., Rm. 501, down the alley and through the glass doors, (802) 380-1607, www.catherinedianichgallery.com
Continuing in December is "Endangered Season: Winter in Vermont." This exhibit of paintings and installations by artists Mollie S. Burke, Joan Peters, and Jude Roberts Rondeau is both a celebration of our winter and a call to consider the impact of climate change on it. Artists' reception from 5:30 to 8 on Dec. 6. The gallery is otherwise open by appointment.

35. Hooker-Dunham Theater & Gallery
139 Main St., down alley and downstairs one flight, (802) 254-9276, www.hookerdunham.org & Facebook
Liz LaVorgna -- core-photo.com -- explores Dapper/Boi style with December's photo exhibit "DAPPER." The term brings to mind a sense of confidence, refinement, and style. That's what viewers will see in this exhibit: photographs of people who are not afraid to express themselves with their personal style. Dapper is not about gender, it's about a state of mind. This exhibit is sponsored by Green Mountain Crossroads. Artist Reception on Dec. 6, 5:30-7:30 pm. Gallery open otherwise during events at Hooker-Dunham Theater & Gallery and by appointment.

36. Penelope Wurr: Contemporary Glass & Gifts
167 Main St., (802) 246-3015, www.penelopewurr.com
For Holly Days and Gallery Walk weekend, Penelope offers a Studio Sample Sale of her exceptional glassware. Many unique pieces of glass will be ON SALE at the retail store, alongside a selection of Holiday Gifts, Cards, Wrap and arguably the Best Selection of Ornaments in town! Peruse handmade felt hats and luscious silk and cashmere scarves from the UK. Xmas puds have arrived from London, as well as a bevy of British groceries and candies, from sugar mice to mini chocolate champagne bottles. Beat the rush, come early -- Xmas hours 10-7 pm. Open late for Gallery Walk on Dec. 6.

37. A Candle in the Night
181 Main St., (802) 257-0471, www.acandleinthenight.com
Featuring flags and other assemblages by Larry Simons, made from scavenged wood found on his travels near and far. "I love old ramshackle wooden buildings with lean-tos and additions, especially barns with weathered gray siding and red trim. Rather than re-coloring anything, I prefer to work with the palette I find." Work by Abigail Rieser, Ahren Ahrenholz, and Simi Berman is also displayed among a treasure trove of Oriental carpets, furniture, antiques, and accessories from around the globe. Interior design services available. Hours: Fri. 10-8, Mon.-Thurs. & Sat. 10-6, Sun. 12-5.

38. Take a Moment for Peace
Centre Congregational Church, 193 Main St., in the Church Parlor, (802) 257-4588 Dee and Bob Keller
5:30-6 pm · Everyone is invited to the Moment for Peace in the Centre Church Parlor on Fri., Dec. 6, during Gallery Walk. This month, Damaris Bernhard leads a meditation entitled "A moment of rest in the midst of the busyness of life." As we enter into this season of emphasized-giving, let us consider the reciprocity of giving, which is receiving. We cannot give that which we do not have. ... Through music and silence, we are invited to simply receive and extend to ourselves the gift of compassionate rest. Damaris Bernhard is a musician and songwriter; certified Interspiritual counselor, ordained minister, and life-long student.

39. Brooks Memorial Library
224 Main St., (802) 254-5290, www.brooks.lib.vt.us
MAIN FLOOR: Artist Mia Scheffey is showing rose photographs, watercolor landscapes, and a collage series. MEZZANINE: Selections from the Loud Collection of 19th-century European art. SECOND FLOOR CHILDREN'S BOOK ILLUSTRATORS CASE: Internationally acclaimed author-illustrator David Macaulay shows artwork from his books "Short Cut," "How Things Work," and "Castle." Selections from the Fine Arts Collection are permanently displayed throughout the building; a brochure offers a self-guided walking tour during library hours: Mon.-Wed. 10-9; Thurs. 1-6; Fri. 10-6; & Sat. 10-2. EIGHTH ANNUAL HOLIDAY BOOK SALE: Fri., Dec. 6, 10-6, and Sat., Dec. 7, 10-2. Continues during regular hours through Dec. 20.

40. Brattleboro History Center
196 Main St. (through the side door of Masonic Center), (802) 258-4957, info: histsoc@sover.net, brattleborohistoricalsociety.org
Free admission: Open 5-8 for Gallery Walk, otherwise Thurs-Fri. 2-4, Sat. 11-3. See a truck and a train specially crafted from wood, and enjoy handmade dolls. Glimpse Rudyard Kipling through Mary Cabot's journal entries ("Annals of Brattleboro, 1681-1895" author); peruse her photo albums. Play a locally made Estey Field Organ.Read VT Phoenix weeklies from 1895. See a West River RR video and diorama. Learn about Crosbys, Esteys, and Moodys. Inspect the Ft. Dummer replica; dig into its history and artifacts at Brooks Library. Old signs, maps, prescriptions, gowns. Research Room at Municipal Center (3rd fl, elevator) open Thurs. 2-4, Sat. 10-12, by appt.

41. ART 4 DANCE Benefit Auction
Brattleboro School of Dance, 22 High St., 3rd fl., (802) 254-6884
6:30 to 8:30 on Dec. 6: SILENT AUCTION BENEFIT for Windham Regional Career Center Dance Program students to attend the National High School Dance Festival next Spring, an important venue for college admission and scholarship opportunities. Offerings include paintings and sculptures from the art collection of the late Otto Marx, MD, from Central and South America, Africa, and Japan. Holiday gifts/goodies from Brattleboro merchants and artists include gift baskets, jewelry, art sets, books, textiles, and gift certificates for products, services, food/drink, and much more. The silent auction will continue through Dec. 15 during BSD studio hours, Mon.-Fri. 3-7 pm.

SPECIAL REGIONAL EXHIBITS

A. SE Vermont Welcome Center
I-91 North, about a mile south of Exit 1
The Silo Gallery hosts work by Caryn King, whose wildlife and barnyard animal paintings bring out the personality of each animal. ClearLake Furniture is displaying fine furniture hand crafted in Ludlow. One rocking chair is made from boards milled from tapped maple trees, featuring the distinctive holes left behind from years of maple sugaring. Information and exhibits are available for visitors and residents alike. The center is open from 7 am to 11 pm daily.