Art aficionados, local patrons and community artists now have a place to hang their work and their collective artists’ hats. The Gallery on Second in Brentwood officially opened its doors to the public on April 14, attracting gallery goers from East County as well as Walnut Creek and Livermore.

“We had a lot of people come in, and it warms my heart,” said Gallery Manager Jack Gaughan. “This community is growing with a lot of people who have lived in other places and were accustomed to going to galleries and theaters – and we haven’t had that here before.”

According to Gaughan, the community gallery will feature the work of high-achieving amateur artists as well as professionals primarily in Contra Costa County and the surrounding Bay Area.

Reaction to the new community gallery was positive. “I hadn’t seen it before,” said resident Cindy Williams. “I love it.”

“It’s a prime location and nicely done,” said Josie O’Malley. “I think it will be very successful.”

The April 14 opening and ribbon-cutting event also gave the public a preview of one of the gallery’s upcoming happenings: the Artists Open Studio Tour, an annual self-guided tour of local galleries.

This year’s studio tours will be held May 11 through 13, and the gallery premiere offered a sneak peek at the show, which will encompass 21 locations and 42 artists.

The Gallery on Second, located at 741 Second St., is open Wednesdays through Saturdays from noon to 5 p.m.