BELFAST — Community and artists came together to enjoy a night of art in Belfast Friday, May 30, for the first monthly Art Walk of the season. Approximately 20 art galleries held open receptions offering nibbles and wine, and the chance for residents and visitors to experience a variety of artwork from local artists, as well as artists from away.

Ellen Sabina, Waterfall Arts Gallery, explained that the Art Walk is: “a great way for the gallery to connect with people. It’s fun to get summer folks in here, too.”

Betts Gallery at the Belfast Framer on Main Street had a great turnout for the opening of the “31 Flavors” exhibit.

The exhibit showcases 31 different Maine artists, several of which attended the opening reception, including Leisia Sochor, of Brooks. The gallery celebrated the many flavors theme of the show by giving away ice cream to all who came in to peruse the artwork.

Anne Warren, the owner of Betts Gallery, was pleased with the turnout and excited for their next exhibit which will showcase four female artists from the University of Maine.

“The Art Walk is a great way to raise awareness of art in the community and see the variety of the art,” said Julia Clapp, who helps support the various local art events and organize the Art Walks through her internship at Belfast Arts.

Local performers provided live music on Main Street as Art Walk attendees walked from one stop to the next. A contemporary dance duo performed on another corner of town. Each month will feature different performers during the Art Walk.

Also in the green by the Aarhus Gallery, Waterfall Arts offered an arts and crafts opportunity for kids of all ages. All materials are supplied and it’s free to create the art and take your finished product home with you.

Many shops and restaurants stay open later during the Art Walk providing an opportunity for visitors to see what is happening at favorite shops and discover new shops. Abby J. Freethy, owner of Northwoods Gourmet Girl, a new shop in Belfast on the corner of Main and High streets, just celebrated her shop’s grand opening. They offer all natural, gourmet pantry items like a jalepeno relish, country ketchup, blueberry jam and other home goods. As they gave out samples and tastings to Art Walk visitors, Abby said, “It’s really fun to see everyone out and such enthusiasm.”

Art Walks will continue to run on the final Friday of the month May through October, from 5:30-8 p.m. For more information visit www.BelfastArtsandCulture.org. Belfast Arts brochures with a map of all the participating galleries are available at each gallery.