While they often start with a simple image — a palm tree, or a lighthouse — Jamie dePasquale’s paintings develop over time into works of remarkable, and often surreal, complexity.

Harper’s Gallery has paintings and ceramics by three artists whose moody, complex works “straddle an axis of abstract and recognizable imagery.”

Strong stories by four female playwrights will have staged readings in Bay Street Theater’s New Works Festival.

The Art Center at Duck Creek will open with geometric wooden abstract paintings by Don Christensen, and ritualistic sculptural groupings by Brianna L. Hernandez.