Her blonde hair trails down over her red 50s polka-dot dress with plunging neckline. Mascara-laden eyelashes flip upward to reveal the stunning hazel eyes of Danica. But hold it, gentlemen: Shes only 5 years old and hoping to win a beauty pageant. Little Danica is just one of Susan Andersons subjects showcased in High Glitz (through May 28). Anderson, a fashion photographer whos also shot for Playboy, focused her lens on child beauty-pageant contestants, using on-location studios to capture these aspiring Miss Americas in the heat of competition. Her portraits offer a disturbing glimpse into the world of Little Miss Sunshine and JonBenet Ramsey. Her young models are so composed, its hard to believe theyre real. Dont be fooled by fellow exhibitor Alex Pragers fun-loving subjects in Polyester, though. Prager manipulates mannequins in narrative scenes that are stunningly lifelike. Anyone for a dip in the hot tub with Lucy? Photographic Center Northwest, 900 12th Ave., 720-7222, www.pcnw.org. Free. Noon9:30 p.m. JOSHUA LYNCH
May 18-28, 12-9:30 p.m., 2008
