Plump infants, a Pietà scene and a man meditating in the lotus position are among the timeless images in artist Casey McKee's latest exhibition, "Iconoclast," which he suggests reflects a new direction in his work. "It's a series I've been thinking about for at least a year and a half," he says.The sensuously spiritual large-scale canvases, washed in sheer earth tones, are not intended to convey a religious message, notes McKee. Rather, they're his modern takes on works by old masters such as Goya and El Greco, which inspired him during a trip to Spain and Italy. "I think they're universal images of human existence," he explains. While the subject matter might be different for McKee, the technique is still the unique paint and photosensitive emulsion process that turns his whole studio into a darkroom. "Iconoclast" opens Thursday, May 1, at Scottsdale's Cultural Exchange Gallery. For details call 480-941-0900.- Michele Laudig
Country Club
Deconstructing art
5/1-5/31
Art lovers eager to expand their worldview should navigate north to Carefree, where Andora Gallery is going global. An international exhibition opening Thursday, May 1, showcases works by more than a dozen artists from Canada, Germany, Japan, Korea and the U.K. Featuring jewelry and works of metal, fiber, glass, clay and wood, the show spotlights English artist Dail Behennah's new series of baskets and balls (pictured), constructed from stainless steel rope that's been plaited, twined, coiled and lashed. The exhibition continues through May 31 at the gallery, 7202 East Carefree Drive. Call 480-595-1039 for hours. - Jill Koch
Display Ground
Promo lures happy lookers
5/1-5/31
>Like our favorite companions, this deal is cheap and easy and has culture up the wazoo. Presented by the Central Arizona Museum Association, May Museum Month offers discounts at 40-some area museums. Through May 31, participating CAMA members offer 2-for-1 admission or free mementos to visitors carrying Museum Month Culture Passports, available free at Valley Robinsons-May stores. Inspired by International Museum Day (May 18, of course), the promotion plugs major players -- the Heard, for instance -- while touting lesser-known spots, such as Fountain Hills' River of Time Museum. Themes range from hobbies (the Arizona Doll and Toy Museum) to heroes (the Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting). See www.azcama.com or call 602-251-0209, extension 6414.- Jill Koch
