There’s an end to the FAC doldrums. If you have the been-there-done-that Friday after class blues, get ready to march to a new beat — an Art Beat.

The Brunnier Art Museum is introducing a new program series called Art Beats which will bring live music to the museum on Friday evenings beginning Oct. 4. Art Beats offers a new option for relaxation and entertainment after work or class.

Among the exhibits on display at the kick off will be the “Century Mural.” Currently, a work in progress, artist Doug Shelton, with a team of ISU students and art instructors, is in the process of creating the mural to commemorate the 140 year anniversary of Iowa State. Visitors will have the opportunity to see the landmark as it is being painted.

“It’s going well,” Shelton said of the mural’s progress. “We’re right on schedule with about four weeks done and four more to go.”

Shelton said the unique experience of Brunnier doing double-time as a museum/studio is an ideal place to create.

“It’s a fun atmosphere, pretty plush compared to other places I’ve done murals,” he said. Shelton added that the constant scrutiny of onlookers “doesn’t bother” him.

“I’ve done a lot of mural work,” he said. “I really don’t mind people watching or offering comments. If they just want to watch and don’t say anything, I can tune them out.”

What no one will want to tune out are the sounds of Ames’ favorite guitar virtuoso, Larry Myer who will provide the night’s entertainment. Myer is a local singer/songwriter and acoustic performer. He has produced two CDs, Flatlands and The Ring and Other Ballads both of which have sold out multiple pressings.

There will be a $5 cover charge at the door, $4 for museum members. Hors d’oeuvres will be provided and there will be a cash bar. Art Beats starts at 5 p.m. and runs until 8 p.m.

Brunnier Art Museum is located on the second floor of the Scheman Building in the Iowa State Center.

For more information call 294-3342.