YOUNG FRIENDS OF GRAND CENTER PRESENT “ARTini” April 15, 2011

Young Friends of Grand Center presents the inaugural ARTini from 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, April 15, in the Rialto Ballroom in the Centene Center for Arts & Education, 3547 Olive Blvd. Featuring a fusion of musical performances throughout the night, food and drinks from local restaurants and live art demonstrations, ARTini is a brand new artistic and cultural fete – launching the group’s signature annual event. There will also be a silent auction featuring behind-the-scenes tours of some of St. Louis’ iconic cultural institutions, restaurant gift cards, theater tickets, and works from local artists, among other items.
Tickets for ARTini are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Tickets will go on sale March 24 and are available online at www.grandcenter.org and at Left Bank Books, Vintage Vinyl, Euclid Records, and Reunion Revolution.
Musical acts include:
Derren Raser, who has shared the stage with Nickel Creek and opened for the likes of John Mayer and Hanson.
Dawn Weber – who has played with the Saint Louis Symphony and Holiday Brass – brings the diverse, high-energy stylings of her Electro Funk Assembly.
The Steve Ewing Band caps off the evening with their lively mix of classic covers, Urge favorites and outstanding selections from their six independent releases.
Participating restaurants include:
Bryan Young Catering, Kota Wood Fire Grill, Vito’s Pizzeria, The Fountain on Locust, and more to be announced.
Visual artists include:
Michael Bolton (abstract painting), Jennifer Hayes (figurative painting), Carrie Hawkins (pastels), and Heather Woodson (ceramic/clay).

Young Friends of Grand Center is a group of young working professionals that supports Grand Center Inc.’s efforts to engage new audiences in the arts and to develop a deeper understanding of, and appreciation for, the St. Louis region’s largest – and most creative – cultural destination, Grand Center, the arts and entertainment district located in midtown St. Louis. Visit www.grandcenter.org for more information.