Around The Arts

Amazon exhibit opens at Mathers Museum tonight\nA new Mathers Museum exhibit, "Forest Farmers of the Amazon Estuary," celebrates the rich environment of the Amazon and the people who live there. The opening reception for the exhibit is at 6 p.m. today at the Mathers Museum, 416 N. Indiana Ave. The free event will feature a performance of Brazilian music by ABACAXI as well as refreshments. The exhibit, which deals with the lives and material culture of rural farmers as well as with the social stereotypes and economic issues, is the first of its kind for the museum. The exhibit will remain open until next December and will be curated by IU Professor Edwardo Brodizio and his wife IU researcher Andrea Siqueira. For more information, call 855-6873 or www.indiana.edu/~mathers.\n'Russian Ark' celebrates 300 years of history with film\nA film showcasing 300 years of Russian history is available for screening at 8 and 11 p.m. tonight and Saturday at the Indiana Memorial Union's Whittenberger Auditorium. "Russian Ark" is celebrated as the first film to be made in one take as well as for the longest singe shot in film history -- 90 minutes. The film takes Russian history and turns it into cinematic reality, according to event organizers. The screening is free with a valid student ID. For more information, contact the Union Board at 855-4682.\nChicago author mixes music and literature in book signings\nPaul McComas will present his newest release, "Unplugged," at 4:30 p.m. Saturday at Howard's Bookstore, Fountain Square #116. McComas said he does not believe in boring book-signings. Instead, his tour features rock music to carry the book's message. The event includes a guitar performance by IU student Ben Handelsman and a vocal presentation by Chicago singer Erin Walsh. McComas' book tells the story of successful singer Dayna Clay, who struggles with depression and attempts suicide. For more information, visit www.paulmccomas.com.