It’s no secret downtown San Diego is known for boasting some of the coolest rooftop lounges and trendiest restaurants, but now — thanks to a growing trend — there’s another reason to check out the downtown scene. Over the last several years, a number of bars from Vin De Syrah to Stingaree, have stepped out of their comfort zones by holding unique, one-of-a-kind art shows. Bar Basic, located at 10th Avenue and J Street has been hosting Basic Tuesday — a lively, interactive art show — for almost five years. Held every Tuesday night from 8 to 11 p.m. (unless the Padres are playing a night home game), the weekly show is free and has cultivated quite a following. Owner Erik Tesmer said the concept is all about promoting local artists in a positive light. “There are lots of creative, amazing artists in San Diego. Basic Tuesday is a great way for them to showcase their unique talents,” Tesmer said. The art shows run the gamut from abstract paintings to photography to spray painting. Each show typically features anywhere from 10 to 20 artists. “The key is that it’s always different from week to week and we often include live, interactive performances such as dance and fashion shows,” Tesmer said. Promoter Johnny Tran has brought more than 60 shows to Bar Basic. Tran said the venue gives local artists a fresh approach to showing off their work. “Art shows at Basic Tuesday are important for local artists because it’s giving them an opportunity outside of the typical art gallery scene,” Tran said. “In many ways, it provides an even playing field, which would not have existed before. Many local artists have begun their careers at Bar Basic.” Engaging the audience by making it interactive plays a big role in Tran’s art shows. “We’ve incorporated burlesque, modern dance, acroyoga and fashion shows into our events,” Tran added. The next show is a science-themed art exhibit titled “Elements of Expression” that will take place Jan. 11. Tran said the show will concentrate heavily on biology, biotech and the DNA world. If you’re not a science buff, there’s always the next show on Jan. 25 which will have a movie theme. “Captured and Framed” will feature a number of custom art pieces depicting movie scenes from favorite classics such as “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” starring Audrey Hepburn. For more information on Bar Basic, log onto www.barbasic.com. We want to hear from you Visit the Shorelines Gallery on Jan. 19 between 5 and 8 p.m. during the Gaslamp Locals Lifestyle & Design Tour. This is a great way to walk around downtown and see the colorful galleries and boutique shops! Find a Sticks Furniture piece in The Shorelines Gallery at 411 Market St. and write down one of the inspirational messages on one of the pieces. Post the inspiring words and explain why you like the message on our Facebook page by Jan. 21 and be entered to win two tickets to a Saturday Scavenger Hunt. On Jan. 19, there will also be a special show featuring Donna Smythe, a popular San Diego artist. — Marc and Darlynne Menkin are the co-owners of Where You Want To Be Tours. Many of their tours and team building scavenger hunts feature secret downtown areas. www.wheretours.com