An eight-week open mic and art series is beginning Wednesday at the Rookery downtown.

The series, called Mountainside Open Mic and Art Jam, invites people from around the community who want to express their creativity in song or drawing. The event runs from 7-9 p.m. every Wednesday until Dec. 5, and each night includes a scheduled performance from an experienced and local singer-songwriter. The first performer is George Kuhar, who will start his set at 8:30 p.m. Wednesday.

From 7-8:30 p.m., other performers can take the microphone for two songs or 10 minutes maximum. Sign-up begins at 6:30 p.m. All genres are welcome, though poets and storytellers are asked to take their talents to poetry events such as Woosh Kinaadeiyí Poetry Slam or storytelling events such as Mudrooms.

People with questions or looking to volunteer to help with the sound system should email marian@mariancall.com.