'Love Never Dies'

More than 20 international artists, poets, filmmakers and performers are collaborating to celebrate all varieties of love in all stages of life. Officially, the show "explores the themes of marriage, family, relationships, aging and generational change in the LGBTQ communities," but it's fair to assume that the exhibit, readings, screenings, posters and other material will hit some socio-political buttons, too. More event details and related events at Traffic Zone Gallery.

• Mary Abbe

'Pick Me Up'

Since Rosalux Gallery shut its doors last fall, its collective of 24 artists has had to seek shelter elsewhere -- including founder Terrence Payne, whose whimsical portrait work and silk screenprints have made him a local favorite. His latest collection of screenprints doesn't stray from his trademark of connecting his subject to its surroundings, at times blurring the line between background and foreground. He also returns to other recurring motifs, such as strange characters, allegorical themes and strong color juxtapositions (robin's egg blue with burnt orange, mint green against red). Cops and cowboys figure prominently, harking back to seemingly sweet childhood games of cops and robbers and chicken fights. But by utilizing foreboding text ("You can't always lead if you carry") and turning his subjects' backs to the viewer, Payne achieves a fascinating and slightly disturbing effect that is all his own. More event details.

• Jahna Peloquin