Bedtime Stories

You may be familiar with the annual Bedtime Stories, the Humanities Washington gala that promotes storytelling, critical thinking and conversation. During the event, Northwest authors take over the stage to fundraise for Humanities Washington's efforts, sharing works that spin off of the gala's main theme, as well as engaging each other and the audience in noteworthy conversation. This year, the Bedtime Stories theme is Red Eye and will be taking place in Seattle, Washington on Friday, October 12. The author line-up includes Kathleen Flenniken, Charles Johnson, Kevin O'Brien, Amy Wheeler, and Nancy Pearl will be running the mike as the event's emcee.

For those literary lovers who would be interested in going, but feel that Seattle is a couple too many hours across the way, we have good news: for the first time, Humanities Washington will be holding Bedtime Stories here in Spokane, Washington as well. The opening Spokane roster features local writers like Kim Barnes, Jim Lynch, Shann Ray, and Nance Van Winckel. Our very own Jess Walter, author of Beautiful Ruins, will take over the stage as the evening's host.

In addition to the brain-storming and thought-provoking conversation, Bedtime Stories will be offering food for hungry writers, and various types of wine to wet those parched throats. Spokane's Bedtime Stories will be held on Friday, September 28 at 6:15pm in Skyline Ballroom, Red Lion Hotel at the Park. Individual tickets will be going on sale this summer. For more information on either event about remaining tickets, event sponsorship, or purchasing a table, reach Kari Dasher at 206.682.1770 x103, or email her kari@humanities.org.

Unity in the Community

Set in Riverfront Park, this diversity festival is the largest multicultural celebration to happen in the Inland Empire. Over 6,000 people attended last year's Unity festival, and this year is expected to draw an even bigger crowd!

Participate in this year's theme, "Where's Waldo Scavenger Hunt", organized by members of Youth 'N Action. Do your good deed for the day and donate school supplies to the Back-to-School Supply Give-Away. Check out the Cultural Village that brings the heart and soul of countries like South Africa, Turkey, Persia, Scandinavia, China, and many more, to Spokane. Or, if you just feel like kickin' it beneath the sun, bring a funky beanbag or lawnchair and immerse yourself in the entertainment. In the past, Unity has had Chinese dancers, Hawaiian singers, Gospel choirs, theatre performances, and belly dancing.

Spokane has a lot to offer by way of its history and the diverse population that calls this city home. Join us August 18, from 10am to 4pm to watch the performances, travel the booths, and see the wonders of Spokane. If you have questions, visit www.nwunity.org/ or email Unity at the Community at info@nwunity.org. Volunteers are always welcome!

Uncommon Gifts

Spokane's Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture (MAC), founded in 1916, has gone above and beyond when it comes to its duties of collecting historical artifacts and documents. Inspiring appreciation of all things historical, cultural, and downright fascinating, the MAC once again has delighted visitors with its new exhibit, Uncommon Gifts.

Showcasing seven internationally known artists with ties to the Inland Northwest, this exhibit proudly displays the Liberty Mutual/Safeco Insurance corporate collection. Artists include Jacob Lawrence, Fay Jones, Morris Graves, Barbara Thomas, and George Tsutakawa. Visitors can expect to see almost 500 works created on paper, 130 canvas and panel pieces, and more than 180 three-dimensional objects of glass, ceramic, bronze, and mixed media persuasion.

The Uncommon Gifts exhibit runs from June 25 to August 25. While you're there, check out the MAC's previously mentioned Dig It! The Secrets of Soil exhibit, or the Two to Tango: Artist and Viewer, Lasting Heritage. The MAC is a cultural showplace that strives to bring the past and present together with community events, rare pieces, and local artists. For more questions, visit the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture website, or call 509.456.3931.

Learn to Paint While You Drink

What if you had the chance to savor the most delectable wines, while contemplating some of history's most famous classical artwork? Let me do you one better. What if you had the chance to hold the brush in your own hand, painting those renowned paintings while sipping local brands of Merlot?

Local artist group Van Gogh and Merlot are experts at holding these sorts of events. Their mission statement promises to help "individuals participate, share, and express themselves artistically"...all while holding a glass of vino in your hand and flourishing that little pinky. The idea was to help people understand that art is not reserved for those few blessed with true talent. Art is about expression, and Van Gogh and Merlot know just how to help you get those thoughts onto the canvas.

Classes are held in groups of 5-25 students, depending on day, price, and theme (some classes include live nude models, so parents beware). All artistic materials are provided, and drinks and snacks are typically up to the client (in other words, bring your own beer, my friends). Venues include Spokane's Luxe Coffee House, complete with a wine and beer bar; the Pasadena Ridge down in Spokane Valley; and pretty much anywhere with room for a canvas stand or two!

So! If you've a hankerin' for a drink, and you're feeling mighty da Vinci-ish, visit the Van Gogh and Merlot website, or take a look at the Facebook page to grab some inspiration.