>> Irvine Contemporary opens two solo shows on Thursday, by artists working in extremely different styles and techniques. On the one hand are Sean Foley’s creepy, colorful paintings and works on paper. (At first glance, the image on the gallery’s homepage conjures up images of old Ren & Stimpy episodes.) On the other are haunting new photographs by Gina Brocker of a family of Irish migrants. Chat up the artists about their work at the…

A show of 10 artists from last fall’s Artomatic show has opened at the Anne C. Fisher Gallery in Georgetown. The brainchild of Fisher and F. Lennox Campello of the Fraser Gallery (and prolific author of popular blog D.C. Art News) “10 Most Wanted” showcases a few works from some of the two gallery owners favorite Artomatic artists. The works on display range from abstract paintings and mixed media panels to sculpture, photography, and interactive…

>> Avoid the mall and take advantage of the numerous venues for purchasing handmade arts and crafts here in D.C., including Gateway Georgia Avenue’s 2nd Annual Holiday ArtWalk tomorrow night in Silver Spring. Local artists will have paintings, prints, photos, quilts and more available for sale for $15-$300. Even if you’re only browsing, you can enjoy free empanadas from Los Arrieros or wine and finger food at The Graphic Workshop, Pyramid Atlantic and Kari Minnick…

FRIDAY: The five Canal Square Galleries (MOCA, Fraser, Parish, Alla Rogers and Anne C. Fisher) are having the monthly 3rd Friday openings tonight with five new shows to formally open the DC art season. Wine and sangria will abound! Mmm. Sangria. 6-9 p.m. Looking for a low-key night because you still have a hangover from the DCist happy hour? Oh, is that just us? There are plenty of flicks opening up tonight; we’re partial to…