Hoo boy, there’s a lot of good stuff happening this weekend. Narrowing it down to five highlights is no easy task, so we encourage you to check out all the featured events in our online calendar.
‘Impact’ at UNH Museum of Art
Three area artists who have been recognized for their contributions to the cultural life of the region are featured in the spring exhibition at the UNH Museum of Art in Durham. “Impact” showcases the work of Sachiko Akiyama, Tara Lewis, and Jocelyn Toffic — the 2018 recipients of the Piscataqua Region Artist Advancement Grant. The show opens with a reception on Friday, April 12, from 6-8 p.m., and will remain on view through May 17. For more information, click here.
Wild & Scenic Film Festival
A volunteer committee watched more than 150 inspiring films as it determined which selections to show at this year’s Wild & Scenic Film Festival. The Southeast Land Trust of New Hampshire (SELT) is presenting the annual festival at The Music Hall in Portsmouth on Friday, April 12, at 7 p.m. The short films outline both environmental concerns and celebrations of the planet. Tickets are $20, with all proceeds going to the SELT. For more information, click here.
Brad Marino Album Release
Singer and multi-instrumentalist Brad Marino, best known as front man for local rock outfit The Connection, is set to release his brand new solo album, “Extra Credit” (out April 19 on Rum Bar Records). He’ll celebrate the new album during a performance with his band on the WSCA Button Factory Stage at Portsmouth Community Radio on Friday, April 12, from 7-10 p.m. Also on the bill are Kris Rodgers and The Dirty Gems. Tickets are $10. Learn more here.
Vinyl Fest II at Book & Bar
Portsmouth Book and Bar will celebrate this year’s national Record Store Day with the second Vinyl Fest celebration on Saturday, April 13, starting at 10 a.m. A series of local DJs will spin vinyl throughout the day, including Bruce Pingree, Chris Hislop, Dave Pelletier, Ainsley Aude-Croteau, Joe Murphy, DJ Defrock, and DJ BlackAction. There will also be rare Dogfish Head beers on tap, records for sale, and raffles to benefit the Portsmouth Music and Arts Center. Learn more here.
Contemporary & Abstract
The next exhibit at The Art Center in Dover features work by more than 25 local artists in a variety of media and styles. “Contemporary & Abstract” opens with a reception on Saturday, April 13, from 6-9 p.m. and runs through May 3, with a closing reception during next month’s Dover Art Walk. The work on display ranges from whimsical to realistic, subtle to bold, straightforward to truly abstract, all expressing a variety of human emotions. Learn more here.
For a complete calendar of local events, click here.