Photo By M (An Ultramodern Gallery)

Mason Paul's "I'm Done" was inspired by the words of a writer from InkTank.

It's no secret that the First Friday Gallery Walk includes some terrific galleries along its route. But it's never been more apparent than this month, when I had the pleasure of visiting EINE KLEINE PHOTOGRAPH. (610 Main St., Covington.) Photographer THOMAS MCFARLANE shows us New Studies of Cincinnati Union Terminal, a collection of photographs depicting the home of the Museum Center. Simplicity of form is evident in McFarlane's work: The images are clean and precise, depicting the true lines of this architectural gem that so often escapes our gaze. McFarlane creates magic with the shadows and angles. Each image seems painstakingly detailed, showing the viewer a peculiar slant of the stairs, or the side of the building. He has caught the sun's shadow in a particular style that highlights a distinctive part of the building in each photo. I've never looked at Union Terminal in quite this way -- and I doubt you have either. Through Aug. 31. ...

Don't leave yet; walk just a bit past Eine Kleine gallery to M (AN ULTRA MODERN GALLERY) (519 Main St., Covington) for Words and Form, a union of writing and visual art. Over 15 artists, using written work from the writers in InkTank's "Street Writers" program as inspiration, created pieces in a variety of media, including sculpture, found objects, collage, acrylic paint and more. Some pieces include the words as part of the artistic vision; for others, consult the board where all 32 writings are displayed. Each written piece offers a visceral truth yet also suggests the haunting beauty evident in its visual counterpoint. The effect is sobering but strangely exquisite. It's too difficult to highlight just one piece, but you can see them all: InkTank's offering an additional opportunity to view the work when the exhibition moves to its headquarters (1311 Main St., Over-the-Rhine) for Final Friday this week. Don't miss a truly memorable exhibition. ...

Final Friday in August also offers a chance to enjoy an exclusive new art form while raising money for cancer research. The fifth annual BREAST CANCER BRICK SILENT AUCTION will be held at the Pendleton Art Center (1310 Pendleton St., Over-the-Rhine) on Friday. Over 30 artists have transformed ordinary bricks into distinctive works of art, which will be available for purchase during the silent auction. The event, hosted by the Woman's Art Club, will donate all proceeds to a variety of cancer care and research facilities, including the Breast Cancer Alliance of Greater Cincinnati. Stop by and show your support. 6-10 p.m. Friday. ...

Finally, finish off your weekend at ALCHEMIZE (1122 Walnut St., Over-the-Rhine) where you'll find Art Aches, a monthly art show and sale on the last Saturday of each month. The event showcases original and affordable (very important!) art for sale while promoting local emerging artists. You'll find a variety of media and items available, including jewelry, sculpture, collage and many others. Try something new -- and stay for live music and a few drinks. 9 p.m.-midnight Saturday.

Mini Reviews
Currently on view at the COVINGTON CATHEDRAL ART GALLERY is Tower of Babel, monotypes by JOAN EFFERTZ. The overall experience is calm and quiet, while achieving a soft and gentle visual aesthetic. She has carefully arranged different woven elements such as string or netting in an effective, collage-style format. Effertz's prints explore divisions that currently occur within society, primarily focusing on the religious and spiritual divide. Her goal is to inspire a dialogue and provoke change. Although the work carries with it a charming color pallet and an intriguing use of materials, it lacks the real visual tension necessary, considering the power of the artist's conceptual intent. Though August. (JACQUELYN VAUGHN) Grade: C+