'Parables of Mutation'

Part of a crop of young artists harking back to the figurative painting movement epitomized by Rembrandt, north Minneapolis painter Luke Hillestad has found success emulating a timeless style. Since he first picked up a brush in 2006, his work has already been shown in Germany, Norway, Nashville, Chicago and Florida, with exhibitions planned for New York and Dubai. Before he moves to Paris to live and work with Norweigian master painter Odd Nerdrum (one of Hillestad's key influences) in May, Hillestad goes out with a bang with "Parables of Mutation," a show fusing traditional styles with experimental techniques and exploring themes such as transformation. (Opening reception 7-10 p.m. Fri. Must RSVP to info@roguebuddha.com. Rogue Buddha Gallery, 357 13th Av. NE., Mpls. 612-331-3889 or www.gutofart.com.)

• Jahna Peloquin

'Los Cuatro Ases'

As nice as the drive is to Franconia Sculpture Park near Taylors Falls, it's good to have a piece of FSP's free-wheeling countenance in the city. Launching its second season at northeast Minneapolis' Casket Arts Building, Franconia will show off its newly renovated indoor gallery and outdoor sculpture yard -- featuring eight large sculptures -- with "Los Cuatro Ases" ("The Four Aces"). The show is a spicy mix of sculpture, paintings and photographs, often combined, by four members of the Twin Cities-based Latino visual arts group Grupo Soap del Corazon: Alonso Sierralta (Chile), Peter Martín Morales (Guatemala), Douglas Padilla (Minnesota) and Xavier Tavera (Mexico). (Reception 7-10 p.m. Sat. Casket Arts Building, 1781 NE. Jefferson St., Mpls. Open noon-5 p.m. Saturdays or by appointment at 612-275-2835. Ends May 12. www.franconia.org or www.gruposoap.com.)

• Mason Riddle