During near-death experiences, some people claim to see angels, but not Gia Pionek. Instead, when Pionek thought she was going to bite it on the side of a rocky mountain, she saw a giant "Marshmallow Peep."

Well, not really.

But Pionek does attribute her desire to host an annual "Peep Show" to her harrowing hiking experience three years ago in Patagonia.

"I didn't know if I would make it back, but I did know that if I returned, I would do all I could to create memorable moments with friends and family," she says.

Hence, the lucky-to-be-alive Pionek will co-host with Nicole Hauser the second annual "Peep Show" -- an exhibition of artworks made of and inspired by Marshmallow Peeps -- on Sunday, March 20 at Art Bar, 722 E. Burleigh St. The event is free and starts at 5 p.m.

Last year, Peep Show took place at the bar formerly called Evan's and featured Peep photography by Mark Cherek, Peep assemblages by Paula Shulze, Peep paintings by Lucky Star Studios' Gene and Bridget Evans, Peep jewelry by Jenny Bohr, Peep dresses and hats and Peep lamps. Other highlights were the 8-foot-tall pink glittery Peep cut-out for photo-opps and a provocative "Passion of the Peep" diorama.

Peep Show participants are to bring their Peep art to Art Bar on the evening of the event and will be responsible for the removal of their work at the end of the evening. Artists may price their work for sale during the event.

"Easter is my favorite holiday," says Hauser.

For more information, call (414) 372-7880.

Stay tuned to OMC for another food-as-art event coming to the Third Ward on Gallery Night, April 15. Hint: It'll be cheese-tastic!