This art lover was seriously lax in her enthusiasm for the local art scene these past two months, thanks to the unforgiving brutality of winter. You'd think I would be used to it now, but I don't think I ever will. Well, lucky for me, the sun is coming out and the snow is melting, which means I'll be able to see a lot more local art, and Maine's galleries are gearing up for a fabulous spring.

There's still time to catch Wonderland at Whitney Art Works, until the exhibition closes on March 28. The work of Lucinda Bliss, Lydia Badger, and Patricia Brace explore relations between our world and the animal world, with wondrous results. Alice would find herself at home among the quirky, whimsical creatures that inhabit the works of these three talented artists. Yet despite the playful nature of the art, there is something sinister lurking beneath the surface. There is much to ponder and enjoy at this show, so follow that little white rabbit and let yourself be enchanted by Whitney's Wonderland.

[art by Lucinda Bliss]

During the month of April, Whitney welcomes works by Adriane Herman, Tim Clorius and Melinda Barnes in an exhibition in which the artists examine personal and historical concepts. Through works of diverse media, the artists grapple with the tension between observation and representation, and the personalization of familiar elements.

["Boy with Carp" by Tim Clorius]

Through April 24, the ICA at MECA is showing the BFA Senior Exhibition, and from May 9 to June 7, the MFA Senior Exhibition. Don't miss the chance to see the local art scene's rising stars, and probably some names you'll already recognize.

Installation artist Sam van Aken is one of the "Four in Maine," showing at the Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland. He is creating an installation especially for this exhibition.

From April 2 to 25, Greenhut Galleries will present Mary Bourke, whose colorful, dream-like paintings evoke memories of a simpler time. To me, her art is somewhat reminiscent of Henri Matisse crossed with Gustav Klimt. It is sure to be a lively show, perfect for springtime. Greenhut's new format, which debuted in March, offers a small showing in the side gallery in addition to the primary solo shows. This month, works by Marsha Donahue will be on display.

One of my favorite Maine artists, Allison Cooke Brown, has a piece in the collection of the National Museum of Women in the Arts. The artist's book, "Teatimes" is included their 20th anniversary show "The Book as Art" at the McMullan Museum of Art at Boston College.

["Black Room" by Mary Bourke]