Celebrate art and creativity tonight at a beach-inspired art auction at the Holter Museum of Art. The "elegant beach" Auction Party begins at 5:30 p.m., with music by the Mark Hutchinson Trio, wine donated by the Panhandler, Blackfoot River Brewing Co. beer, and a grand buffet catered by Sodexho.

Auctioneer Jerry Toner starts the live auction at 7 p.m., offering paintings, sculptures, ceramics, fine furniture, fiber art, and jewelry by over 90 exceptional regional artists, including Josh DeWeese, Len Eckel, Michael Haykin, Sarah Jaeger, Dale Livezey, Nan Parsons, Jim Poor, Scott Walter, Rosalie Wynkoop, John Buck, Edd Enders, Nancy Erickson, George Gogas, Jeneese Hilton, Jerry Iverson, Davi Nelson, Neltje, David Shaner, Chris Staley, Akio Takamori, Arin Waddell, and Cathy Weber.

At the beginning of the auction, the museum will present the Norman "Jeff" Holter Award to Dick and Mary Ann Duffy, in recognition of their exceptional generosity, remarkable creativity, and deep commitment to public service.

For last minute viewing of artworks on Aug. 5, and to obtain an absentee bid form, go to the museum's Web site at www.holtermuseum.org. You may place absentee bids until 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 5, by contacting Brandon Reintjes, Curator of Exhibitions, at 442-6400, x111.

Tickets to the auction party are $30 in advance and $35 at the door. Proceeds from the auction, which is sponsored by Appleton Furniture & Design Center and Wells Fargo Bank, benefit the Holter Museum's exhibition and education programs.

For more information, contact the Holter Museum at 442-6400.