Be sure to enjoy the next Art Walk on Second Saturday, when most shops and galleries stay open until 8pm or so. Many of the galleries host free receptions to celebrate the opening of new exhibits, while shops hold special promotions and other surprises await. Of course, galleries are open the rest of the month, too, so explore the arts anytime!

In the galleries right now

JOIE DE VIVRE GALLERY: The featured artist for May and June is Paul Lockhart, a direct metal sculptor whose wall hangings and tables feature scenes from the natural Chesapeake--herons, crabs, marsh grasses and more. While you're there, head to the second floor to see the work of the Joie de Vivre Studio artists, and visit the Race Street Gallery in the back part of the Joie de Vivre building with a juried exhibition of 20 different regional artists. Meet the artists at free receptions both in the gallery and upstairs in the studios on Second Saturdays, 5:30-7:30pm. 410 Race Street, 410.228.7000.

• Named best "Art Gallery" on the Lower Eastern Shore in the 2013 "Free State's Finest" awards presented by Maryland Life Magazine. 

• Named "Best Art Gallery Showcasing Local Artists" in 2012 "Best of the Eastern Shore" ratings by What's Up Eastern Shore magazine. Also named "Best Artisan Jewelry" in 2011 and 2010 "Best of the Eastern Shore" ratings. 

DORCHESTER CENTER FOR THE ARTS: The May exhibit is the annual "Young People's Art Show" featuring works in a variety of media created by school-age children throughout Dorchester County. Meet the artists at at child-friendly free receptions on Second Saturday, 5:30-7:30pm. Also, don't miss StudioWorks, the gift shop with artist-made items. The DCA also offers a wide range of art classes for children and adults.  321 High Street, 410.228.7782.

• Named "Best Art Program" in 2012 "Best of the Eastern Shore" ratings by What's Up Eastern Shore magazine. Also named "Best Art Gallery Representing Regional and National Artists" in 2011 "Best of the Eastern Shore" ratings.

MAIN STREET GALLERY: This co-op gallery features the work of member artists from around the Eastern Shore region. The exhibit in May will be built around the theme of "Women In Our Lives" the works by the Cambridge artist Theresa Knight McFadden will featured. Stop in to see their dramatic space and to check out works by top artists. Free receptions held every Second Saturday, 5-8pm. 447 Race Street, info@MainStGallery.org. 

DANNY DOUGHTY GALLERY: Step into another time and place at this gallery, which features the vibrant, colorful work of folk artist Danny Doughty. Through paint, Doughty shares his life growing up on Virginia's Eastern Shore. 437 Race St.

WRIGHT'S ART AND FRAMING: Featuring original artwork—including paintings of Shore life and sports memorabilia prints—by Cambridge artist George Wright. Stop Wright's by and you may see the artist at work on a painting. 111 Maryland Avenue, 410.228.7977 

WEDNESDAY MORNING ARTISTS WINDOW: Works by members of this group of local artists are on display in the storefront window at 504 Poplar Street, www.wednesdaymorningartists.com.