The Washington Ballet’s Opening of The Joseph C. Coleman Studios. Photo by Mena Brunette, xmbphotography.

INVENTIONS: Pagan Kennedy, author of Inventology: How We Dream Up Things That Change the World, discusses the “formula” for inventions, and how you can use it. Sixth & I (600 I Street NW) 7 p.m. $12-27

POLITICS: During “House of Cards: Politics, Television, and Ethics,” Stef Woods, an instructor in the American Studies program at American University, discusses why we are drawn to Frank Underwood and how politically focused television shows can influence voter perspective. S. Dillon Ripley Center (1100 Jefferson Drive SW) 6:45-8:45 p.m. $30-45

WATER, COLOR: In “January Illustrated Cocktails: An Evening of Drinks & Painting (in or outside the lines),” you’ll drink a cocktail by mixologist Gina Chersevani, then paint one. Union Market (1309 5th Street NE) 6:30-8 p.m. $46.46