A work of art can provoke a knowing smile or inspire deep philosophical thought. It can make us laugh or cry. It can thrill, terrify, amuse and confuse – sometimes all at once.

To continue bringing art to the forefront of local culture, Jack and Betty Gaughan are developing the Gallery on Second as a division of the Brentwood Theater Company. The new gallery, in addition to displaying high-quality art, will serve as a focal point for events through which artists can share their talents and passions with the public.

The gallery’s grand opening will be held on Saturday, April 14 at 4 p.m. A complimentary reception will follow the ribbon cutting, giving attendees the opportunity to view the gallery’s first show and enjoy light refreshments. “People who come will be able to visit with the artists,” said Gaughan. “A lot of them will be here.”

Gaughan chose the gallery’s opening date to correspond with the timing of the 2012 Artists’ Open Studio Tour, an annual event at which community members can watch professional artists work, and ask them questions. This year’s event, held May 11 through 13, will include 40 artists working at 21 studios. The tour is self-guided, giving attendees the opportunity to choose which studios to visit and when. The Gallery’s first show includes one piece from each of the 40 artists. Maps of the tour are available in the gallery.

Among the works featured in the show and tour are the glass and jewelry creations of Bonnie Cichosz and the watercolor paintings of Annalise Hanel, winner of the Best in Show at last year’s Student Art Show. Other works include photography, sculpture, fabric, oil paints and ceramics. Most of the pieces at the gallery are available for sale.

Another event, Art Walk, is held once a month on the sidewalks surrounding the Brentwood Farmers’ Market. Artists set up displays of their work for viewing and purchase, and some work on new pieces on the spot. The events give artists another opportunity to share their creations while adding additional festivity to the downtown area.

For the gallery’s next show, Gaughan will feature Bill Weber, a painter “nationally known for his murals.” Gaughan plans to show many well-known artists at the gallery and hold events outdoors, such as “painting at the park” days for local professional artists.

Gaughan, himself an artist specializing in ceramics, is actively involved in the local community. He was previously president of the Brentwood Arts Society, is the executive producer of the Brentwood Theater Company, and is also active in the Rotary Club and the Police Activities League. “The creative arts are what keep us above the primitive,” he said. “The whole point of the gallery … is to bring to the community a focal point for an elevated level of art.”

The Gallery on Second, located at 741 Second St. in Brentwood, is open Wednesdays through Saturdays from noon to 5 p.m. For more information, call 925-516-2741.