Photo By Ursula Roma

Ursula Roma's "Animals"

Almost through the month of March (and all its ides), it's been easy to miss some great exhibitions. Read on for some chances for last-minute glimpses. ...

If you're looking to stretch your mind, stop in the YWCA WOMEN'S ART GALLERY (898 Walnut St., Downtown) for Virtual Realities: Abstract Constructions, Mixed-Media Paintings, Found Object Masks & Other Recycled Art by artist URSULA ROMA. A sculptor, painter and self-professed "salvager," Roma finds potential in others' discarded items -- she rescues them and transfers them into organic shapes within her artwork. She explores different dimensions of media and experiments with mask and figure forms to create truly one-of-a-kind objects. Roma says, "Artists should never complain about a lack of materials -- we are surrounded and overloaded with them." Enjoy the overload through March 31.

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You also only have a few more days to make it to MILLER GALLERY (2715 Erie Ave, Hyde Park) to take a look at MOSHE ROSENTHALIS' legendary paintings. An Israeli artist influenced by the bright light and confident colors of his country, Rosenthalis experimented with styles of Western painting, creating his current style that blends traditional landscapes with more abstract, expressive elements. After just a few moments viewing some pieces, I found them alive with vibrant color and harmonious composition. His work is a joyous celebration of his love of painting, and it shines from each piece. Don't miss your chance through March 24. ...

If you haven't been to the WESTON ART GALLERY (650 Walnut St., Downtown) to see artist MARTIN BERNSTEIN's opulent exhibition, A Personal Odyssey: Paintings, Jewelry and Mixed-Media Installation, then head over this week when the artist visits in person. A nationally recognized artisan of jewels, Bernstein makes a stop in Cincinnati for an exclusive trunk show featuring his luxurious creations of jewelry and jeweled objects. Rich in design as well as materials, the objects feature a wide array of gemstones, including Tahitian pearls and rubies. So while you're there, awash in awestruck wonder, take a look at his installation and hear insights into his creative process. And, of course, everything is available for purchase. 6:30 p.m. Thursday. Reservations required; call 513-977-4165. ...

Get ready for a scavenger hunt of epic proportions: Starting April 1, PROJECT EGG will descend on Cincinnati courtesy of national artist JEFFREY SCOTT HOLLAND. Part of an installation that includes Chicago, St. Louis, Atlanta and Louisville in addition to Cincinnati, Project Egg will distribute more than 10,000 plastic eggs throughout these cities as a multi-city arts installation. The eggs will contain a variety of art objects created by Holland, including sketches, micro-sculpture and even miniature, postage-size paintings. All eggs will contain a serial number, and finders can register their egg, with enclosed art findings, on www.jeffereyscottholland.com. Scavengers will find eggs in a variety of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky neighborhoods. Holland notes that although the eggs themselves are art, the act of searching and discovery is also an artistic process, one that continues to intrigue him. If it intrigues you, too, keep your eyes peeled for a glimpse of green plastic starting in April.

Mini Reviews

On view at AWAKENINGS COFFEE AND TEA (2734 Erie Ave) are recent works by local photographer AMY CORTEY. Cortey's photographs translate into a rich and honest reflection of her life. Documenting her travels as part of her home-school curriculum, she has captured aspects of the continuously changing world around her. The primary subject matter is nature and landscapes. It's obvious Cortey doesn't impose a hidden agenda, nor is the work infused with some degree of propaganda. There is nothing particularly spectacular about the printing technique or how the shot was taken. The captivating aspect of the work is the sweet honesty captured within each shot. Continues through March 31. (Jacquelyn Vaughn) Grade: B