Metal sheets provide a backdrop for framed oil paintings and water colors in the windows of The Vault Gallery of Fine Arts. The Rockdale Avenue location for Dartmouth's newest art gallery hosts painted mirrors, terrariums, and ceramics, but behind it all are clearly visible features of a bank.

Sculptures stand where patrons once filled out deposit slips. Hand-crafted mugs and jewelry line "Teller Row." And in co-owner Barbara Leger's new studio, a paint-splattered cloth covers what was once an office desk.

"We really wanted to keep that free, fresh line of the bank," said Leger, who serves as the Vault's art director. She said the gallery extends 70-feet.

Since Leger and co-owner Sandra-Souher Nasrawis opened the bank-gone-gallery on August 31, the facility has functioned as part gallery, part shop, and part event host, with a bit of "bank" scattered in.

Leger said she was stunned when she first toured the former bank a year ago.

"The light was just perfect in here," she said. "I love the space. It's just so inviting."

Leger, a master marine oil painter herself, soon reached out to her peers and began filling the building with local art, and welcomes guests Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m.- 5 p.m.

The gallery doubles as a shop, with salable items ranging from wall decor to stocking stuffers.

"We have a big diversity in art and a big diversity in price," said Leger. Patrons can view the inventory at any of the Vault's events. Leger said she strives to host two events each month.

"All events are free," she said. "It's just to give better exposure to the gallery and the artists."

The Vault's next event will be a "Deck your walls" holiday celebration on December 10, 6-9 p.m. The gallery open house will include paintings, photography, pottery, sculpture, jewelry, and gifts alongside hors d'oeuvres, a cash bar, and live entertainment.

Sculptor John Evans will attend to showcase his newest collection and present on his work. All beverage sales, provided by Buzzards Bay Brewing, will benefit the Buzzards Bay Coalition.