Arts + Benefits :: What to do this week!

Joyfully spontaneous? Socially conscientious? Artistically curious?
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Readers are welcome to add their own picks for THIS week (scroll down.) For more events see the Fundraisers Datebook or the E•X•P/arts Calendar.

August 26 – Thursday

[Visual Art] Art and the Animal – An Evening with “The Masters”
This traveling exhibition features paintings and sculpture by renowned animal artists from around the world. At this gala opening celebration, on the grounds of the former Fleischmann estate (think: margarine), you’ll have an exclusive opportunity to view and purchase artwork, while sampling fabulous cuisine from a team of master chefs led by Chef John Kinsella of the Midwest Culinary Institute. Pictured: Spring Spectacle-Hooded Warbler by Darin Miller

Where: Greenacres Arts Center, 8400 Blome Road, Indian Hill
When: 6-10 p.m. It runs through October 29.
More information: www.green-acres.org/artandtheanimal

August 28 – Saturday

[Benefit] Bike MS: Venture the Valley
This two-day cycling event involves more than 1,000 cyclists of all ages and abilities gliding through some of southwest Ohio’s most beautiful countryside and small towns. Come ride either a 50-, 100- or 150-mile route beginning on Saturday morning with a festive overnight stay, wrapping things up on Sunday afternoon. The ride is fully-supported and safe, and benefits the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Where:  Camp Kern, east of I-71 near Lebanon
More information: www.fightmstoday.org

[Everything & the Kitchen Sink] Farmers’ Fair
Come spend a day deep in the heart of downtown Covington as Farmers’ Fair celebrates and supports local food culture and sustainable living. Combination street fair, farmers’ market and fundraiser for local food related initiatives, this day-long festival provides fun for the whole family as it illustrates the connections between farm and table. Actor-turned-activist Ed Begley will appear and speak on the advantages and possibilities in living green.

Where: Corner of Court St. and Park Place, downtown Covington
When: 10-10
More information: www.farmersfair.org

[Benefit] Rockin’ Lobster
Wrap up the summer along with 800 of your fellow Cincinnatians as they snarf down whole Maine lobster and filet mignon. What a sacrifice, right? Dance under air-conditioned tents, enjoy the open bar – featuring specialty drinks – or splurge at the live and silent auctions, all in support of the Children’s Home of Cincinnati.

Where: Children’s Home of Cincinnati, 5050 Madison Rd., Madisonville
When: 6 p.m.
More information: 513-527-7247 or www.thechildrenshomecinti.org

August 29 – Sunday

[Benefit] Hot Music—Cold Treats
Spend a lazy summer afternoon on the luscious lawn of the Taft Museum slurping ice cream and listening to music in a contemporary re-creation of the traditional ice cream social. Music is provided by Drums for Peace, a group of musician/storytellers who share multi-cultural traditions from equatorial climes through song, story and audience interaction. Bring a blanket and soak up the sun.

Where: Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., downtown
When: 1–3 p.m.
More information: 513-241-0343 or www.taftmuseum.org

Have a suggestion for another fine arts event or benefit this week? Post it here!
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