BIZ BITES

Iconic dog comes to Newport gallery

The Lonely Dog, a hard-living canine from New Zealand who fronts a rock ‘n’ roll band, will tear into Newport Beach Saturday for his first gig in the United States.

Or his first exhibit, that is.

Ivan Clarke’s cartoon character may be a hit in his home country, where his images and collectible books have a strong following, but he has yet to make it big across the Pacific. On Saturday, the Lahaina Galleries in Fashion Island will have the honor of introducing Lonely Dog to a new audience.

Limited edition copies of Clarke’s book “Alveridgea” will be for sale at the show, along with bronze sculptures and paintings. Clarke will attend to discuss his creation at 5:45 p.m. The show lasts from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. and the art will remain on display at the gallery until mid-August.

The gallery is at 1173 Newport Center Drive by the Cheesecake Factory. Call (949) 721-9117 for reservations.

— Michael Miller

Sutra Lounge night club to celebrate third birthday

Sutra Lounge, a popular restaurant and night club in the Triangle Square shopping center, plans to celebrate its third anniversary with a party Saturday evening.

From 8 to 9 p.m., the lounge will offer complimentary appetizers and champagne while DJ Splyce, who has been featured on “Larry King Live” and the 2006 Grammy Awards, will provide music. The doors open at 6 p.m.

Sutra Lounge, which opened at Triangle Square in 2004, is at 1870 Harbor Blvd., by the 55 Freeway. Call (949) 722-7103 for more information.

— Michael Miller