The third annual Celebrating Art & Artists event will have a Western theme.

The public is encouraged to attend and dress appropriately with cowboy boots, hats and handkerchiefs. The gala is hosted by the Albert Lea Art Center each year as a fundraiser for programs and as a celebration of achievements from the previous year.

This year’s event is from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday at Wedgewood Cove Golf Club. There is a $10 admission fee.

The featured artist for the event is Harlan Bang. His work is diverse and includes landscapes of rural scenes around Iowa and Minnesota as well as florals and still lifes.

Around 20 local artists have also donated works for the silent auction. They include work by: Lu Callstrom, Rory Mattson, Tim Zenk, Pat Garbisch, Beth Tostenson, Bev Jackson Cotter, Judy Gordon, Bonnie Broitzman,, Barb Butler, Ann Oliphant, Laura Lunde, Julia Olson, Steve Tubbs, Peg Shelton, CeCe Breke and Tom Mullen. A number of pieces from Dr. Toby Thompson’s private collection will also be available.

Entertainment for the evening includes Western-themed music by Lang ’n’ Lang, with help from soloist Stephanie Erdman.

There will also be singing waiters, Jim Broberg, Bill Buege and Roger Truax. Krieger Beverage and Locher Bros., sponsored by Hy-Vee Wine & Spirits, will each offer six to seven beers, ciders and ales to taste. Appetizers and a cash bar will also be available.

The Albert Lea Art Center’s mission is to create, educate, promote and showcase the arts. The purpose of this event is to promote artists in the community and encourage public participation in the Albert Lea Art Center.