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's NawRuz New Day Festival of Persian, Baha'i, Sufi, and Central Asian cultures on Sunday, March 23, 1-3 pm, at the Gallery; free for all ages. 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 STUDIO from 5 to 7 pm for Gallery Walk on March 7: Naomi Goldie is showing her recent oils of Brattleboro, New York City, Ferris Wheels, and more -- naomigoldie@yahoo.com. Contact Hannah Parker by phone or email (above) for an appointment to see currently available studio space as well as rooms suitable for one-day or longer meetings, workshops, or other gatherings.

4. Brattleboro Museum & Art Center
10 Vernon St., (802) 257-0124, www.brattleboromuseum.org
FREE ADMISSION during Gallery Walk -- the only Walk for checking out winning Vermont high schooler submissions for the 2014 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.... Catch other exhibits before they close on Saturday: VT Kids Design Glass II: Imaginary creatures drawn by kids and transformed into glass sculptures by professional artists.... 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.... Create chance-based art with the 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.

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
Sabrina Hull a native of the Hinsdale/Brattleboro area, displays 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
"Venus Visions" presents new work by Heather Miller, recently returned from a few months in the mid-South with "a deeper understanding of love and community, especially how it exists here. Many dreams, memories, and prayers have produced a variety of visual fruits in multi-mediums that inspire, uplift, and reflect. As a Taurus, I am excited to share how the energy of ruling planet Venus graces my life with love and beauty." Visit online for more Venus Visions: www.venusvisionsart.com. Superfresh! offers "exquisite vegetarian fare," small-scale performances, artisanal shelf-stable food products, herbal apothecary goods, and educational resources. Open Wed. & Thurs. 8-10, Fri. 8-11, Sat. 10-11, Sun. 10-8.

8. River Gallery School of Art
32 Main St., (802) 257-1577, www.rivergalleryschool.org
Work by students of Life Drawing and Portraiture is featured in gallery spaces during March. Stop by to see how the beauty and diversity of the human form and face have been expressed using charcoal, pencil, paint, and collage. The Office Gallery features watercolor paintings by students in Lynn Hoeft's classes.... And 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: Featured artist Doug Lynch lives and works in Brattleboro. His current work is a personal exploration of the intersections that exist among vision, imagination, matter, and the physical processes involved in constructing a painting. These abstract works have a distinct physical presence. Doug teaches at Landmark College in Putney and has shown at venues in Cincinnati, Philadelphia, New York City, Maryland, and Vermont. Artist's reception during Gallery Walk on March 7, 5:30 to 8:30; otherwise open during movie showings and by appointment -- contact Doug at (215) 817-1089 or lynch.doug@gmail.com. To preview the show visit: http://douglaslynch.wordpress.com/paintings-2/2013-2/.
B. MAIN THEATRE: An exhibit of photographs of acrobatic and aerial performers from New England Center for Circus Arts is showing during March. These vibrant images by Jeffrey Lewis of Brattleboro capture the somewhat spare beauty of mostly individual students and professionals showing the elegance of form and line that NECCA teaches, and they illustrate the dynamism of circus in action. There is a certain spare beauty in these pictures of mostly individual performers. More of Jeff's circus photos are showing at Vermont Artisan Designs. Don't miss the Circus Spectacular shows in the Main Theatre on March 8 & 9 -- www.necenterforcircusarts.org. Reception during Gallery Walk, 5 to 6:30; otherwise accessible during movie showings or special events, or by appt.: (802) 254-9780.

10. Flat Street Brew Pub
6 Flat St., (802) 257-1911, www.flatstreetbrewpub.net
New winter paintings by Sarah Adam are featured 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. Student Arts Month Kickoff at Boys & Girls Club
17 Flat St., SAM Info: (802) 365-9970, suzydraw@aol.com (Susan Rosano), www.ACWC.us (Arts Council)
Each March, the Arts Council of Windham County honors students and their teachers at public and private schools in Windham County, not only those involved with studio art but also music, theater, and dance. Festivities for the 34th annual Student Art Month begin at 5:30 during Gallery Walk with a reception for this year's 2-D High School Art Show. Come for refreshments and a concert by The Snaz, an indie rock band with three girls and a male drummer, all from BUHS, performing all original songs. Related shows at In-Sight Photography Project and Vermont Artisan Designs.

12. In-Sight Photography Project
45 Flat St., Ste. 1, (802) 251-9960, www.insight-photography.org
In March In-Sight is hosting the Student Art Month High School Photo Show of images by secondary school students in Windham County working in a variety of mediums. Opening Reception during Gallery Walk, 5:30-8 pm. In-Sight's own programs offer local youth the tools for creative self-expression, regardless of the ability to pay. Otherwise open Mon.-Fri., 9:30-5:30. Call or visit online for further info. See related High School art shows at Boys & Girls Club and Vermont Artisan Designs.

13. Cynthia-Reeves New England
47 Flat St., (802) 579-1029, www.cynthia-reeves.com
"Substrate of Nature," a new exhibition featuring the pastels of long-time Brattleboro artist Ray Ruseckas opens during Gallery Walk on March 7, 5:30 to 8:30. Ruseckas' pastels 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.

14. Vermont Center for Photography
49 Flat St., (802) 251-6051, www.vcphoto.org
UNCOVERED: Collected Photographic Memories - A Series by Margaret Kristensen runs through March 30. This exhibit features over 100 interesting, curious, funny, or beautiful prints from thousands of negatives (mostly unidentified family photos from the '40s through the '70s) that Margaret has bought or found. "Many images and their negatives disappear as time passes. A few get discreetly tucked away in boxes and, with any luck, reappear 60 years later. During the past year I have been collecting these emerging negatives and using them in my work." Reception on Friday, March 7, 5:30-8:30; otherwise: Fri./Sat./Sun. 12-5. Details online.

15. Women's Film Festival Gala at New England Youth Theatre
100 Flat St., (802) 257-7364 Fest Info, womensfreedomcenter.net
OPENING GALA, 7 to 9 pm on Mar. 7: The 23rd annual Festival, a Women's Freedom Center fundraiser, features 31 films directed by and about women -- 17 documentaries, 4 features, and 11 shorts from around the world to be screened March 7-16 at NEYT. The opening night gala includes a champagne reception and screening of "Wonder Women! The Untold Story of American Superheroines." Buy $25 gala tickets online or by phone (see above), or email advocates@womensfreedomcenter.net. Drop-ins welcome if tickets are available.

16. 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.

17. Metropolis
55 Elliot St., (802) 254-8500, www.metropoliswinebar.com & Facebook
Chicago-based photographer Chris Basil, a Windy City native, has also lived in places such as Alaska, Hawaii, and Vermont. Much of his work explores themes of nature constrained by big cities, and big cities conversely constrained by nature. With an architect father, he developed a deep appreciation for the skyscrapers of his home city, and these architectural forms often serve as the focal point for his images. Professionally, he works as a network engineer and technology consultant for the legal industry. Colby Dix performs from 8 to 11 on March 7. Enjoy delicious tapas treats, a signature infused cocktail, over 60 wines, and great live music; open 5 to close.

18. New Skin Boutique at Headroom Stages Galleria
17 Elliot St., upstairs, Info: (802) 258-0395 Kat Whitledge
OPEN FRIDAY & SATURDAY, MARCH 7 & 8, 7 to 9 pm: This two-part interactive installation project allows women to publicly share and explore body image insecurities. Before the gallery opening, models were provided a safe space for speaking about how they feel in their own skin, then were asked to imagine the many layers of applied latex absorbing and peeling away that body-image baggage. At the public gallery event, visitors are invited to "try on" the models' latex skins, allowing participants to see themselves with another physical form and promoting compassion toward themselves and others regarding body image.

19. Mocha Joe's Café
82 Main St., (802) 257-7794, www.mochajoes.com
Brattleboro local Jonquil Clouet participates actively in the downtown arts community. Egon Scheile, Bruegel, and wild rock-n-roll are a few of her artistic influences. This show includes recent drawings combining realism and fantasy. Jonquil will be available for questions and comments about her work during Gallery Walk from 6 to 8 pm. Enjoy the artwork, 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
Pottery and sculpture are featured in the Arts Council of Windham County's Student Art Month 3-D High School Show. Also exhibited are photographs of N.E. Center for Circus Arts performers by Jeffrey Lewis (more at Latchis Theatre) and hand-painted kites by Jim Thompson. A book-signing during Gallery Walk introduces Donna Dearborn's "Every Sunday," the story of a special father-daughter relationship. Franz Robert performs on the baby grand 6 to 8 pm. A portion of sales benefits the Brattleboro Heating Fund. More info: www.vtart.com, www.Facebook.com/vermontartisandesigns. See other High School art at Boys & Girls Club and In-Sight Photography Project.

21. Works Bakery Café
118 Main St., (802) 579-1871, http://worksbakerycafe.com
Work by the Independent Study group at River Gallery School (RGS) is featured. Led by RGS creative director Lydia Thomson, these artists meet bimonthly to share works-in-progress for friendly critique, support, and constructive suggestions. Freewheeling discussion of topics including the creative process, personal growth, challenges, and techniques can be profoundly helpful. A nonprofit art school for all ages, RGS is celebrating its 38th year as the creative center for artistic expression in Brattleboro -- www.rivergalleryschool.org.... 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
Closed for Gallery Walk on Jan. 3, reopening Tues., Jan. 7 -- stop by during the month: 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. This month features the opening of "Puppetry: Behind the Curtain," showcasing the works of Finn Campman, Spybird Theater, Crabgrass Puppet Theatre, Spyglass Theater, and Sandglass Theater. Stop by during Gallery Walk for a 7 pm demonstration by Zachary Grace: "The Glass Cowboy" features a glass-blowing puppet (who is himself made of glass) ruminating on life and his craft.

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, are featured in March. "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
"Under Vermont Bridge No. 9" features photographic i mages of the I-91 steel-span bridge currently being deconstructed over the West River. Photographers Myles Danaher, Bob George, and Joshua Farr each bring their own view of the bridge from 1985 to the present day. Also showing are images taken c. 1959 during the bridge's construction. Reception on Friday, March 7, 5:30-8 pm; hours otherwise by appt. -- (802) 380-1607 or email dianichgallery@gmail.com.

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
Student Art from The Grammar School in Putney is featured in celebration of Student Art Month. Art electives are a wonderful opportunity for seventh and eighth graders at The Grammar School to pursue in-depth studies in their choice of four mediums. For six weeks during the winter term, a weekly three-hour art class offers these students an exciting opportunity to discover new art processes and follow their interests while building connections and deepening their skills. Gallery Walk reception from 5:30 to 8 pm. Open otherwise during events at the Theater & Gallery and by appt.

28. Strolling of the Heifers Gallery
Robert H. Gibson River Garden, 157 Main St., (802) 246-0982, www.strollingoftheheifers.com
Strolling of the Heifers celebrates the opening of its new art gallery on March 7, 5:30 to 8 pm, with a reception for "16 by 16 by 27," the 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." The paintings will remain on view until early May; sales benefit the artists and SOTH programs. Open weekdays from 10 to 5 and during special event rentals.

29. Penelope Wurr: Contemporary Glass & Gifts
167 Main St., (802) 246-3015, www.penelopewurr.com
It's all ART in one form or another at Penelope Wurr, continuing to enchant with unusual seasonal gifts: small and large Easter containers from Germany, Fair Trade chicks and bunnies from Peru, and new lighter-weight scarves from London.... Choose something special from Penelope's own Fine Contemporary Glass or unique local and European gifts and furnishings for the interior and garden, both vintage and new.... And don't pass over the yummy array of British candies and grocery items.... CLOSED Tuesday and Wednesday through March 13; open till 8 pm for Gallery Walk on March 7.

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, March 7. This month Parker Huber will lead the meditation "Offerings and Prayers for Contemplation." Meaningful messages come to us daily; Parker will share some recent ones from his life that focus on peace, love, and light. Parker's latest book is "Living by Loving: Journal of a Solitude at Seventy."

31. Brooks Memorial Library
224 Main St., (802) 254-5290, www.brooks.lib.vt.us
THROUGHOUT THE BUILDING: For Student Art Month, artwork by area elementary school children is displayed. On the MEZZANINE are selections from the Loud Collection of 19th-century European art. SECOND FLOOR CHILDREN'S BOOK ILLUSTRATORS CASE: Liza Woodruff has illustrated over 20 children's books and magazines, as well as Kindle editions; titles include "Ten on a Sled," "Super Silly School Poems," and "Clap Your Paws." 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.

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 February 7, 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.

SPECIAL REGIONAL EXHIBITS

A. SE Vermont Welcome Center
I-91 North, about a mile south of Exit 1
The Silo Gallery hosts new paintings by Brookline artist Paul Madalinski, a native of Chicago who moved to Vermont about five years ago. Paul's current work embraces the everyday life of Vermont people and the landscape they live in. Jason Ballard of My Mind's Design in Grafton is displaying a swirling slab coffee table and bowls made from burls. Rocking chairs from Clearlake Furniture in Ludlow and Vermont Folk Rockers in Starksboro are also featured, as are whimsical barnyard animal portraits by Caryn King of South Newfane. Information and exhibits are available for visitors and residents alike. Open 7-11 daily.