HOT NIGHTS, COOL ART:

Years ago, Houston artists had to be survivalists to work in their warehouse studios during the summer. Now, more than 300 artists are much more comfortably set up in the compounds of the 40-acre Sawyer Yards area just west of downtown and north of Washington Avenue. And they love a good party. They throw open their air-conditioned doors 5-9 p.m. Friday for the annual Summer Series, a night of local art, music and cocktails. Wear comfy shoes so you can tour all four buildings without a sweat: Silver Street Studios, 2000 Edwards; the Silos at Sawyer Yards, 1502 Sawyer, and Winter Street Studios, 2101 Winter, are within one huge block; Summer Street Studios, 2204 Summer, is two blocks away. FREE