Aug 25, 2023 5:14 PM

Cool tunes and a pint or two to beat the heat

Posted Aug 25, 2023 5:14 PM

The summer heat has clearly decided to crank it up a notch, but this coming weekend has something to distract you from those scorching summer blues.

From discovering what ignites an artist’s spark to grooving to a mixed bag of great music, or looking for a laid-back night with your favorite artsy-bar-hopping pals, consider your plans officially locked in.

Dive into the weekend in Fort Madison and join Lunch ala Art at the Fort Madison Arts Center at noon this Friday. 

This month’s art lecture shines a spotlight on their August exhibiting artist Bob Peterson.  Enjoy a tasty lunch provided by local spot Simple Table as you get to look behind the curtain of this artist’s creative world, and learn about what fuels the inspiration behind his intricate pen and ink works. 

Call the FMAA today to reserve lunch at (319) 372-3996.

Mark your calendars for a special Friday night at the Capitol Theater, starting at 7 p.m. The local and ever-growing Riverbend Flute and Saxophone Festival, in partnership with Southeastern Community College, presents Tower Duo, a free concert starring the Columbus, Ohio-based ensemble of flutist Erin Helgeson Torres and the saxophonist Michael Rene Torres. 

A blend of the sweet serenades of the flute with the soulful melodies of the saxophone. Their “Music in Motion,” is not just auditory but a feast for your eyes and heart with electronic soundscapes, mesmerizing visuals, and the spontaneity of live improvisation. 

Want more? The Washington’s stage will feature No. 1 Billboard Blues Artist Anthony Gomes on Friday beginning at 8 p.m. 

A guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter, known for his high-energy shows and dynamic stage presence, he is one of the top draws on the Rock/Blues circuit today. Singer/slide guitarist Kara Grainger will be opening up for Anthony Gomes. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door.

The Art Center of Burlington’s ever-popular Pint by Number: Riverfront Edition is back. A match made in heaven: low-key artistic expression intertwined with the clinking of glasses at your favorite downtown watering holes.  A few tickets remain for this August tradition. 

Participants will start at 4 p.m. at the ACB where they will pick up their ‘canvas’ and bar map, then make their way to downtown bars where they will be greeted with all the supplies and paints necessary to complete their masterpiece while sipping on cool, refreshing drinks.

Then, they’ll make their way back to the Art Center for that final nightcap and add their final pièce de résistance.  Rumor has it there may be prizes for the most orderly and disorderly creations. Don’t let your inner artist and party animal down, and register today at btownart.com.