"The Art of Sand Sculpting" will be one of the art-related demonstrations that will be featured as part of Downtown Racine's new event, Art Venture, which will be held on Saturday, July 16 from 6-9 p.m.

Award-winning sculptor Mike Martino along with a team of local sculptors led by Jim Unger and another team of local sculptors led by Evelyn Smetana, will be creating their masterpieces out of only sand and water. Watch as talented sculptors work wonders with sand and water to create "sand art".  There will even be a small "sandy beach" area in which youngsters can play.

There will be live entertainment throughout Downtown including

• Jeff Ward at Crosswalk Park
• James Yorgan in the 300 block of 6th Street
• Big Joe Kennedy in the 400 block of 6th Street

Other displays and demonstrations being held that evening include:

Northern Lights Gallery welcomes artist and musician Don Nedobeck.  Don is an artist, storyteller and musician and creates art in many forms.  This is your opportunity to meet and be entertained by someone who has established himself as an art icon.  In addition to meeting and greeting collectors of Don's artwork, books and music, Don will be providing musical entertainment accompanied by band member James Christiaansen. 

Plumb Gold will be hosting local painter, Lyle Peters.

Just Trade/Cup of Hope will display Sue Hollow's art piece (a drawing of children from around the world) which has been signed by Usha Gandhi Gokani, Gandhi's 85-year-old granddaughter.  In recognition of the Gandhian Peace Movement, Just Trade will feature peace magnets produced by Sarvodaya artisans in Sri Lanka.  The set of four brightly colored disks show various colored peace symbols.  In addition, Fair Trade offers textiles, purses and jewelry from artisans all over India.

Photographic Design Studio and Gallery will feature jewelry artist, Jan Asala with an opening reception from 6-9 p.m.  Jan is a long-time Racine resident who began jewelry designing approximately five years ago.  This is her premier gallery opening.  Her jewelry designs are eclectic, ranging from Swarovski crystals to seed beads to pearls and more. 

Uncorkt will present a complimentary wine tasting from 6-8 p.m. during Art Venture.   

Racine Art Museum (RAM) will present an artist reception and behind-the-scenes look at the works of Racine native Frances Myers.  Her prints are currently on display in RAM's exhibition, The Wright Stuff: Artists Respond to the Work of Frank Lloyd Wright.  Guests will also enjoy free RAM admission from 5-9 p.m.   

Molly Magruder will feature a fashion show by students modeling their own creations. 

Art Metals Studio will introduce the innovative new work of local artist Marg Lacock.   Marg is currently creating three dimensional brass, copper and sterling silver pendants, embellished with pearls, beach stones and glass. 

Racine Arts Council will feature student artists from the Main Gallery art program.  Come talk with the students as they demonstrate their artistic skills.   

George's of Racine will feature Middle Eastern Belly Dancing during Art Venture.

Artists Gallery will feature acoustic 60's music along with a tie-dye demonstration.  

Funky Hannah's Beads and Art will feature glass bead maker, Debbie Morgan, who will be working her torch at the gallery during Art Venture.

Hot Shop Glass will present "The Art of Glassblowing" with artists' demonstrations.

Inside-Out will feature artist Tammy Easton who will present a gallery showing of her mosaic pieces.