Mobile Arts Council presents the second edition of its innovative fundraiser, “ART Works: The Throwdown” on Thursday, Oct. 17. The event begins at 6 p.m. in MAC’s space downtown at 318 Dauphin St.

This one-of-a-kind silent auction/ loud party features a contest like none other seen in Mobile. Inspired by concepts from some of TV's best-loved competition shows, MAC has drafted local artists for a battle of creativity. This year's competitors include Riley Brenes, Amanda Youngblood, David Hebert and, returning to defend his title, Jim Hayward. Each will be given a box with mystery items, a shared supply closet and 90 minutes to create new works of art. The pieces will be sold in a live auction at the end of the evening.

The silent auction consists of items donated by area artists and organizations, ranging from paintings, photographs, ceramics and sculptures to tickets for performances and weekend get-a-ways.

While watching the competition and bidding, partygoers can enjoy the music of local D.J. Bob Kohrman, food provided by Heroes and The Royal Scam, plenty of beer, wine and MAC's signature drink: Red Roosters.

“ART Works” is Mobile Arts Council's largest annual fundraiser, and all proceeds go to support our mission of bringing people and art together.

Tickets are $30 in advance, through midnight Oct. 16, or $35 at the door. You can purchase them at Mobile Arts Council, 318 Dauphin St., or online at Brown Paper Tickets, brownpapertickets.com.