Carlo Mauricio will perform several Classical music selections at the first Drop-in ART Cafe event Thursday, Oct. 20.[/caption]

The Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Art will begin hosting Drop-in ART Cafe events on the first and third Thursday of each month, starting this week.

The idea behind the art cafe is to begin the day by engaging minds with art and music, Museum Director Youlia Bussinger said.

The events will provide a venue for business networking as well as a combination of an arts talk and music performance.

“Everybody has events after work, but why not start the day with art?” Bussinger said.

This Thursday’s event features mixed media sculptor Paula Haymond, whose work is currently on exhibit in the museum’s Rebecca Cole Gallery as part of the show "Turning Point: Woodturnings Evolution from Ancient Craft to Fine Art."

Haymond uses materials including wood, brass, stone and resin to create unusual vases, musical instruments and other objects. She will talk about her work and be available to answer questions.

Musician Carlos Mauricio will perform several works by Bach on the violin as part of the event.

“It is my passion to see performing artists and visual artists together,” Bussinger said.

Refreshments including coffee, tee and cookies will be provided at Drop-in ART Cafe events.

The first Drop-in ART Cafe will be held 8:30-9:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 20 at the Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Art at 6815 Cypresswood Drive, Spring.