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
Featured art includes large painted gourds by Terry Carter; fine art photography by Henry Ireland; botanical illustrations by Tina Olsen; abstract and representational paintings by Martha Dolan; mystical landscapes, studies in nature, and unconventional still-lifes by Janet Picard; personality-filled paintings of farm animals by Caryn King; colorful and whimsical plein air landscapes by Georgie; and impressionist-realistic, light-filled paintings by Deborah Lazar. 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. For inquiries and reservations call: (802) 257-7898, ext. 2 or 3; or (802) 579-9088.
Asian Cultural Center of Vermont celebrates World Tai Chi Day on Sun., April 27, 1 to 2 pm on the Brattleboro Common; practice tai chi forms with others or follow along; donations help offset site rental fee. More information at accvt.org.

VENUES IN OR NEAR DOWNTOWN

3. Whetstone Studio for the Arts
28 Williams St., (802) 579-9797 Hannah, thewhetstonestudioforthearts.tumblr.com
OPEN STUDIOS 5 to 7 pm on April 4: Visit the Vermont Workers Center and join the fight to protect our human rights, or join the Youth Movement and check out the new photo story project, "I am Vermont, too." .... Rosie Schulick of Rosie's Wonders creates handwoven wearable art using luxurious natural fibers; whimsically illustrated note cards; and colorful gemstone jewelry knotted on silk -- http://rosieswonders.com.... Stop by the Stacy Morse (1952-2012) retrospective exhibit.... Sage Feldman is showing paintings and cards.... Property manager Hannah Parker will show currently available studio space and rooms suitable for one-day or longer meetings, workshops, and other gatherings.

4. Brattleboro Museum & Art Center
10 Vernon St., (802) 257-0124, www.brattleboromuseum.org
FREE ADMISSION during Gallery Walk -- The BMAC bursts into bloom with Flora: A Celebration of Flowers in Contemporary Art by Bobbi Angell, Marta Bernbaum, Amber Cowan, Floyd Elzinga, Tom Fels, Janet Fish, Richard Jacobs, Robert Kushner, Tanya Marcuse, Nan Montgomery, Anne Morgan Spalter, Christina Stahr, and Jimmy Wright.... Other exhibits include Water Studies, Brattleboro, an audio-visual installation by Jennifer Stock; and Out of the Shadows: Paintings by Jim Giddings -- for three decades Jim transported, hung, and focused lights on the work of others as the BMAC's building manager, and now the lights illuminate his work. 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.

5. Whetstone Station Restaurant & Brewery
36 Bridge St., (802) 490-2354, www.whetstonestation.com
Instagram turns everyday snapshots into creative works. In 2013, the most "liked" tagged photos taken in and around Whetstone Station were professionally framed and displayed along with some staff favorites. The "2014 Hashtag Project" is now underway: New images tagged with #whetstonestation will be selected throughout the year for adding to the exhibit. Photographers of selected images will be contacted via Instagram and will receive a gift card in exchange for permission to use their photos. An image by Tim Guarente (@dock_boy) is shown in the column at left. So get your creative juices flowing while enjoying the great food, killer beer list, and amazing views at Whetstone Station. Open daily 11:30-10, Fri.-Sat. till 11.

6. Twilight Tea Lounge
41 Main St. - Lower Level (enter directly from Arch St. hill), (802) 254-8887, www.twilighttealounge.com
Continuing in April is an exhibit of paintings by Sabrina Hull a native of the Hinsdale/Brattleboro area who is showing paintings in her home region for the first time. Combining reality, imagination, and fantasy, this colorful collection's theme is a celebration of happiness, love, joy, beauty, and the warmer seasons. Sabrina works in watercolor and acrylic on canvas, canvas paper, and acrylic paper. Hand-painted watercolor postcards are also available for purchase. Teas and treats served until 10 pm for Gallery Walk. Note New Hours: Tues.-Thurs. 12-8, Fri.-Sat. 12-10, Sun. 12-6. Closed Mondays.

7. Superfresh! Organic Café
30 Main St., www.superfreshcafe.com
Gallery Walk reception for landscapes in watercolor and oils by Brattleboro's Scot Borofsky, a graffiti artist in New York's East Village in the 1980s who eventually made his way into the mainstream art world. His work is in the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Brooklyn Museum, and on (or in) many Brattleboro buildings. 8:30-10 pm: Music by NY singer-songwriter Amanda Rogers -- donations welcome. "Inspired by the mysteries of the universe and propelled by the laws of Quantum Mechanics, Amanda is always up to something new and unusual." Superfresh! offers "exquisite vegetarian fare," small-scale performances, artisanal shelf-stable food products, herbal apothecary goods, and educational resources. Open Wed.-Fri. 8-10, Sat. 10-10, Sun. 10-8.

8. River Gallery School of Art
32 Main St., (802) 257-1577, www.rivergalleryschool.org
"Views from the School" is April's featured exhibit of work by RGS artists of all ages. These views from the windows of the school focus on Whetstone Brook, Main Street, Mt. Wantastiquet, the BMAC, and the footbridge. RGS offers year-round classes and workshops for students of all ages and levels of experience, as well as outreach programs. Inquire about our current offerings, April Vacation art camp, and the new summer schedule.... Also check out the RGS "clothesline" exhibit of kids' art at The Works Bakery Café, 118 Main St.

9. Latchis Gallery & Main Theatre
50 Main St., (802) 254-1109, www.latchis.com
A. LATCHIS GALLERY: Recent paintings and drawings by Brattleboro artist Kirsten Ullrich are featured in April. She approaches making images as a process of grafting together a set of elements into a semi-functional whole; like Frankenstein's monster, it's okay that the seams are showing. Artist's reception during Gallery Walk on April 4, 5:30 to 8:30; otherwise open during movie showings and by appointment -- contact Kirsten at (703) 517-4534 or kirstenullrich@gmail.com. Preview the show at: www.kirstenullrich.com.
B. MAIN THEATRE: April's featured exhibit presents work by the faculty of River Gallery School of Art. These local working artists include oil painters, printmakers, sculptors, pastel painters, and watercolorists. Open during Gallery Walk, 5 to 6:30; otherwise accessible during movie showings and special events in the Main Theatre, or by appt.: (802) 257-1577.

10. Flat Street Brew Pub
6 Flat St., (802) 257-1911, www.flatstreetbrewpub.net
New winter paintings by Sarah Adam continue through the end of April. A local artist specializing in acrylic paintings on found and recycled surfaces, Sarah has been focusing on several themes, including foreboding forests, tranquil snowy landscapes, and abstract formations merging underwater life and outer space. For more information, visit Sarah's website at www.madsahara.com. 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.

11. Sabrina Daigh Smith, Certified Massage Therapist
24 Flat St., #201, (802) 246-7833
OPEN HOUSE DURING GALLERY WALK on April 4, 5 to 8 pm: Stop in to meet Sabrina, enjoy light refreshments, and treat yourself to a FREE 10-minute Chair Massage. Certified by the Stillpoint Center in Greenfield, Mass. (2005), Sabrina provides client-centered therapeutic massage for treating a wide range of conditions using various techniques, including: Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Sports Massage, Neuromuscular Pain Relief, Myofascial Release, and Prenatal Massage. Come celebrate Sabrina's new location and get a refreshing boost for your walking tour!

12. Cynthia-Reeves New England
47 Flat St., (802) 579-1029, www.cynthia-reeves.com
Continuing in April is the exhibit "Substrate of Nature," featuring the pastels of long-time Brattleboro artist Ray Ruseckas. These works are complemented by large-scale, gestural paintings by Brooklyn artist Daniel Kohn and a signature anodized steel sculpture by Massachusetts artist Jonathan Prince. Regular gallery hours are Tues.-Sat. 10-5.

13. In-Sight Photography Project
45 Flat St., Ste. 1, (802) 251-9960, www.insight-photography.org
In April, photographs by In-Sight volunteers, staff, and board members are featured in tandem with the Annual Student Show on view at Hooker-Dunham Theater & Gallery (see listing #27). Comprising the backbone of the organization, these photographers bring their own unique visions to the program, providing the key resource that has kept In-Sight strong for 21 years. Opening reception during Gallery Walk, 5:30-8 pm. In-Sight's programs offer local youth the tools for creative self-expression, regardless of their ability to pay. In-Sight is open Mon.-Fri., 10 to 5. Call or visit in person or online for further information.

14. Vermont Center for Photography
49 Flat St., (802) 251-6051, www.vcphoto.org
HANDMADE is a juried exhibition featuring 73 works by 47 artists from 30 U.S. states and 4 countries. The inventive range of images, techniques, and materials attests to a vigorous renaissance in handmade, reconfigured, 21st-century photography. Renowned Boston photographer and Museum School professor Jesseca Ferguson served as the exhibit's official juror. Exhibition catalogs will b e available for sale in the gallery beginning April 4. Gallery Hours: Fri./Sat./Sun. 12-5. Visit online for details.

15. 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. Winter Hours: Open Fri.-Mon. 12-5 and Gallery Walk till 8:30 or later.

16. The Hub Art Space
Arts Council of Windham County, 57 Harmony Pl., access thru Artrageus 1 or from parking lot, Info: (802) 257-1024 Doug Cox or dcox@sover.net, www.acwc.us
The Arts Council of Windham County's new space, accessible either through Artrageus 1 or the Harmony parking lot, is hosting an April show of work by the Art Teachers of Windham County. These educators have rich and diverse backgrounds in painting, printmaking, photography, ceramics, sculpture, and many other visual arts. Stop in to celebrate the talent that inspires the area's young artists to be so creative. Gallery Walk reception from 5:30 to 8:30; hours otherwise Wed.-Sun. 12-5 pm through April 30.

17. Metropolis
55 Elliot St., (802) 254-8500, www.metropoliswinebar.com & Facebook
Metropolis reopens on Gallery Walk after several weeks of renovations; stop by to enjoy the newly revitalized space. Local artist-educator Katy Hughes is showing colored-pencil renderings of detailed floral imagery throughout April. DJ Manhole Cover spins his tunes from 9 to 1 after the Walk winds down. Enjoy delicious tapas treats, a signature infused cocktail, over 60 wines, and a schedule of live and DJ'd music; open 5 to close.

18. Everyone's Books
25 Elliot St., Info: (802) 254-8160, www.everyonesbks.com
READING & DISCUSSION with refreshments on Gallery Walk night, April 4, beginning at 7 pm: The Risk of Returning, a novel by Rudy and Shirley Nelson, explores through individual stories the legacy of the Dulles brothers, and corporations such as United Fruit, on American foreign policy in the 20th century. They tackle the question "What can happen if you go back?" The place of return is Guatemala in 1987, and the "returner" is 40-year-old Ted Peterson of Boston, who wants to solve the mystery of his father's death years before. Instead, caught up in a culture of violence and deadly secrets, what he finds is as much about himself as his father.

19. Mocha Joe's Café
82 Main St., (802) 257-7794, www.mochajoes.com
Teodoro Senni's digital photography is featured. "I've been into photography since I was fourteen, but I'm mostly self-taught and didn't always have the tools I needed." Included are florals, landscapes, portraits, and macro-level, color-manipulated abstracts -- some printed on canvas, others professionally matted and framed. Teo's family moved from Italy to Connecticut when he was 15. In 2009, he earned degrees from Sacred Heart University (English) and Union Institute & University (Literature & Writing). Meet the artist from 5:30 to 8 during Gallery Walk. Otherwise, stop by during regular hours to enjoy the art, a cup of Mocha Joe's own freshly roasted coffee, and delicious pastries.

20. Vermont Artisan Designs & Gallery 2
106 Main St., (802) 257-7044, www.vtart.com
April features new paintings by Robert W. Brunelle Jr., Linda Leonard Hughes and Jeanette Staley, sculpture by David Wade, silver jewelry by Ann Kearney, hand-painted scarves by Teresa Hillary, and stained glass by Edel Byrne. Opening reception from 6 to 8 on Friday, April 4. Live music by Franz Robert on the baby grand. A portion of sales goes to the Brattleboro Area Drop In Center. Visit online or stop by seven days a week to see works by more than 300 fine artists and craftspeople, many nearby.

21. Works Bakery Café
118 Main St., (802) 579-1871, http://worksbakerycafe.com
April's exhibit, "A Patient Search," represents the launching of a collaborative effort by three artists with similar approaches to painting -- Barbara Baker-Bury, Simi Berman, and Jillian Farwell -- who have worked together for many years. In Barbara Campman's Art & Meditation class at the River Gallery School, each artist found a way of engaging in painting as a search for expression of that which is indefinable. They hope to offer further collaborative shows throughout the year.... Also check out the "clothesline" exhibit of children's artwork from RGS.... The café's offerings are thoughtfully sourced, local when possible. Open daily 6 to 6, until 9 for Gallery Walk.

22. David Walter Jewelry Studio
81 Main St., (802) 722-9620, www.davidwalterjewelry.com
David Walter designs and produces contemporary heirlooms in precious metals and gems. In addition to showcasing Walter's jewels, the studio's Master Craft Gallery mounts quarterly exhibits featuring exceptional work by regional craftsmen. The current exhibit is "Puppetry: Behind the Curtain," showcasing the works of Finn Campman, Spybird Theater, Crabgrass Puppet Theatre, Spyglass Theater, Sandglass Theater, and the National Marionette Theater.

23. 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.

24. Amy's Bakery Arts Café
113 Main St., (802) 251-1071
Oils by Heidi Lorenz of Goshen, NH, continue through April. "My work portrays my life -- the people, those places, and the animals that have drawn me in, the subject changing from oceanscapes to farm life and to people I have met along the way." A German native who grew up in the U.K., Heidi relocated to the States in 1986 and earned a degree in Psychology. She began studying art in 1995 and has been mentored by several prominent painters. 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.

25. Gallery in the Woods & Dante's Infurniture
145 Main St., (802) 257-4777, www.galleryinthewoods.com
Gallery 1: "Mia Scheffey: Beneath the Surface" explores the element of Water. These recent abstract oils are characterized by vigorous markings over a layered, luminous field, and they elicit a strong emotional response in the viewer.... GALLERY 2 presents "Klaus Postler (1951-2013): Celebration of a Life," the first installment of works by this peripatetic collage artist and independent curator who was a seminal figure in the global mail art movement. Featured in over 200 exhibitions worldwide, his work is in the archives of the Whitney and Getty museums, MOMA, and the Wexner Center for the Arts.... Reception for Mia Scheffey and Postler's curator, Eileen Claveloux, on March 7, 5-8 pm.

26. The Dianich Gallery
139 Main St., Rm. 501, down the alley and through the glass doors, (802) 380-1607, www.catherinedianichgallery.com
OPENING RECEPTION on April 4, 5:30-8, for sculptural work by Christie Herbert. The box or grid is used as a framing mechanism holding multiple biomorphic porcelain forms. A 12-foot horizontal work explores an unfolding narrative. This show blurs distinctions between the vessel and the body, whole and broken, together and apart. Herbert teaches ceramics at Landmark College in Putney and has an MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts. The gallery is otherwise open by appt.
5:30-6:30 SLIDESHOW in the foyer features images from the Maasai Weaving Project. This pre-Earth Day presentation celebrates creative recycling solutions. Linda Whelihan, with support from Brattleboro and beyond, brought a loom and weaving supplies to the Maasai Mara Reserve and taught community members how to transform plastic waste into marketable items. Elizabeth Ungerleider documented the trip with photos of the people and wildlife affected by this innovative project.
6:30-8:00 CLASSICAL GUITAR by Bill Conley.

27. Hooker-Dunham Theater & Gallery
139 Main St., down the alley and downstairs (or through the foyer entry and downstairs), (802) 254-9276, www.hookerdunham.org and Facebook
In-Sight Photography Project's Annual Student Exhibition is featured in April and May. Over the past year, In-Sight has served 100 students in 18 classes, all invited to submit their best work for this show. Celebratory opening reception during Gallery Walk on April 4. Otherwise the Gallery will be open during Hooker-Dunham Theater performances on April 6, April 18, and May 10, from 7 to 9 pm. In addition, In-Sight will host open times on Thursday and Friday evenings, 5 to 7 pm, during April. Group visits may be pre-arranged with In-Sight staff. For more information, please call (802) 251-9960 or visit www.insight-photography.org. This exhibit is sponsored by Marlboro College.

28. The Gallery at The Garden
Robert H. Gibson River Garden, 157 Main St., (802) 246-0982, www.strollingoftheheifers.com
On April 4, 5:30 to 8 pm, Strolling of the Heifers hosts a reception for 16 by 16 by 27, the gallery's ongoing inaugural exhibit of work by 27 area artists. These 16-inch-square canvases include a variety of still lifes, landscapes, animal portraits, and abstracts. Curator and contributor Caryn King reflects, "Both artists and viewers have been trained to see things -- buildings, books, furniture -- in horizontal or vertical rectangles. Creating something that fits in a square doesn't come naturally." Sales benefit the artists and SOTH programs. Open weekdays through April from 9 to 5 and during special-event rentals.

29. Penelope Wurr: Contemporary Glass & Gifts
167 Main St., (802) 246-3015, www.penelopewurr.com
New ceramics from California company B-Chic Designs are displayed on Penelope's etched-glass tables.... Gifts for Easter, Fair Trade chicks and bunnies from Peru, new lighter-weight scarves from London.... Choose something special from Penelope's Fine Contemporary Glass or unique local and European gifts and furnishings for the interior and garden, both vintage and new.... And try the yummy array of British candies and grocery items.... Open 10 to 6, till 8 pm for Gallery Walk; closed Tuesdays.

30. 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 Friday, April 4. This month Sarah Pirtle will lead the meditation "Still Walking with Pete Seeger." Sarah is an award-winning author, singer-songwriter, and peace activist from Shelburne Falls, Mass.

31. Brooks Memorial Library
224 Main St., (802) 254-5290, www.brooks.lib.vt.us
MAIN FLOOR: The Saxtons River Art Guild displays paintings in various media. On the MEZZANINE are selections from the Loud Collection of 19th-century European art. SECOND FLOOR -- ENTRYWAY: Books with decorative bindings from the library's Fine Arts Collection are shown; CHILDREN'S BOOK ILLUSTRATORS CASE: Liza Woodruff exhibits how she illustrated "If It's Snowy and You Know It, Clap Your Paws!" by Kim Norman. 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.
SPRING BOOK SALE: Fri., April 11, 10-6; Sat., April 12, 10-2; remainders on sale through April 30.

32. 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 4-7 for Gallery Walk on April 4, otherwise Thurs.-Fri. 2-4, Sat. 11-3. Members of the Brattleboro Women's Chorus perform at 6:30 under the direction of Becky Graber. 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.

SPECIAL REGIONAL EXHIBITS

A. SE Vermont Welcome Center
I-91 North, about a mile south of Exit 1
The Silo Gallery hosts paintings by Elizabeth Harris of Moretown. Working under the name EHfreshie, Elizabeth approaches new things with a fresh outlook and places her work in the categories of "roosters" and "other than roosters." Her medium of choice is acrylic paints on paper, canvas, and sometimes wood. Also on display is a selection of Vermont-made furniture from Vermont Woods Studios in Vernon, and Caryn King of South Newfane is showing her whimsical barnyard animal paintings. Information and exhibits are available for visitors and residents alike. The center is open from 7 am to 11 pm daily.