Ron Monsma's "Young Woman Holding an Egg" is on display at Miller Gallery through Friday.

Step out of the chilly November air and into THE FOUNDATION GALLERY at the Greater Cincinnati Foundation (200 W. Fourth St., Downtown) for a warm rush. Artists L.J. FRANKLIN, SUSAN NAYLOR and MARGARET RHEIN inspire with Natural Surroundings, their tribute to all seasons. Franklin's pieces combine photography with colored pencil accents, which she uses to brighten certain aspects of the photo. The photographs appear distorted and wavy, presenting an almost surreal image, yet the intricacy of the colored pencil serves to highlight Franklin's skill. Giving one last glimpse of summer, Naylor's supple pastels display gorgeous gardens and sunny beach scenes with strong lines and exquisite shadowing that emphasize her bold color choices. Lastly, Rhein dazzles with handmade paper collages that include actual leaves and flowers, among other items. Providing captivating texture and varied color schemes, it's almost possible to hear leaves crunching underfoot. Stop by soon for a look at this intriguing array of work. Through December. ...

You won't want to miss the flawless pastels and oils by artist RON MONSMA, now on view at the MILLER GALLERY (2715 Erie Ave., Hyde Park). Acclaimed as one of the country's leading pastelists, Monsma's work demonstrates how he's earned that title. The exhibit features landscapes, nudes and still life pieces, all done in pastel or oil. The intricacy and precision of his pastels make you think you're looking at an oil painting. In "Bound Nest," featuring a bird's nest bound up with string, you can almost feel frayed edges of string against your hand. Monsma's nudes, some done in oil and others in pastel, show a softness to his skill not evident in the other pieces. The skin tones and muscle definition are flawless: In "Man Holding Feathers" each tendril of hair can be seen in perfect wavy repose against his neck. You don't have much time, but you'll want to catch this provocative exhibit. Through Friday. ...

If you can't make it over to The Foundation Gallery, you can also see the work of artist MARGARET RHEIN and nine other women artists who make up STUDIO COLLECTION AT HARMONY LODGE (646 East Epworth Ave., Winton Place) during their 10th anniversary celebration on Saturday. The annual holiday sale will feature prints, paintings, handmade paper, beadwork, textiles and much more. Begun in 1995 as a small holiday art sale, the show/sale has become a tradition for finding handmade and creative gifts. Holiday shopping days are dwindling -- get a head start. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. Admission is free. ...

Renowned pop artist PETER MAX opens an exhibit of his vibrant paintings this weekend at MALTON GALLERY (2703 Observatory Ave., Hyde Park). In his long career, Max has painted for six U.S. Presidents, and you might have seen his work at the 2002 Winter Olympics, the Grammy Awards, several Super Bowls and numerous other events -- always capturing America at its finest with vivid brilliance. Watch upcoming issues of CityBeat for more on Max. ...

I'm distressed to report that CLOSSON'S PHYLLIS J.WESTON GALLERY on Erie Avenue in Hyde Park has closed its doors. But it hasn't gone far. The gallery will re-join its newly renovated home interiors store in Montgomery (10100 Montgomery Road). And, word has it that namesake PHYLLIS WESTON will be opening a new gallery soon in Oakley, near her former protégé, who operates ANNIE BOLLING GALLERY. Check CityBeat for more information.

Mini Reviews
Now at the CINCINNATI ART MUSEUM is Freedom Works. The collection of work was created by the artists of ArtWorks in response to of the opening of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. The work is both responsive and reactionary. The collaborative efforts of the artists resulted in a multitude of voices unified under a common goal. It's carefully crafted and extremely moving. Through Feb. 13. -- JACQUELYN VAUGHN Grade: B