Double shot of sweetness: Art-a-Whirl hits northeast Minneapolis; 'Sugar Sugar' at Burnet Gallery

Opens Friday: Launch a weekend of fun with an angst-free stop at "Sugar Sugar," Minnesota painter Ashely Peifer's "unapologetically sweet" show of pretty-in-pink abstractions that are chock full of licorice-candy stripes, saltwater taffy bonbons and spun-sugar fluffery. "I want my work to remind people of happy little memories," Peifer says. And what's not to like about that? (Opening reception 6-9 p.m. Fri., Burnet Gallery, Le Meridien Chambers hotel, 901 Hennepin Av. S., Mpls. Ends July 11, free. www.burnetgallery.com.) Then, fueled by a sugar high, head straight to northeast Minneapolis, where more than 500 artists are throwing open their studios for the 20th annual Art-a-Whirl, including demonstrations, sales, dining and craft brews, music and free bus rides via Metro Transit. Be sure to proudly wear your red "I Bought Art" sticker. For more info go tohttp://nemaa.org or pick up a free guide at the info booths next to the Grain Belt Studios, NE. Marshall St. and 13th Av., or at NE. Quincy St. at Broadway.

Mary Abbe