Viva d' Arte Garden Party (Vernon Matters Photo)

By Vernon Matters Staff

Italian Garden Party

Viva d’Arte makes a splash for Caetani Grounds

Jun 27, 2022 | 5:00 AM

The prosecco was flowing and the bids were rolling at the Caetani Splash Viva d’Arte Italian themed garden party and art auction on Saturday night on the grounds of the Caetani Centre.

The weather co-operated as over 100 guests enjoyed an outdoor prosecco reception with appetizers, art viewing and music from Jayme McKillop. That was followed by charcuterie, wine, dessert and coffee. Guests came in theme including colourful sun hats and fedora’s.

Art Auction painting on display Image submitted

The auction featured 29 original paintings including several from well known local artists like Michelle Loughery, Julie Oakes, Neil Erickson, Gabrielle Strong, and Melissa Dinwoodie. There were several well respected Canadian artists including Gene Prokop, whose work has been exhibited in national exhibitions and world-wide. For a full list of the artists bio’s and painting click here.

In addition to the art auction conducted by Vernon’s Kevin Rothwell, funds were raised through four basket raffles and outright donations.

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The funds from this years event will go toward the enhancement and expansion of the garden and grounds at the Pleasant Valley Road property. “The Friends of the Garden” initiative is focused on improving the presentation, accessibility and functionality of the grounds to increase the centre’s offering for public and private events.

There is a growing movement to leverage the history of the Caetani story as a means of drawing international cultural tourism to Vernon. Recognized as a name of great significance in Italy, the Caetani family has substantial documented political, cultural and social history dating back to 8th century Rome. Caetani lineage have included two medieval popes, a long line of Italian statesmen, members of the aristocracy, parliamentarians. artists, writers and musicians.

The family made major contributions to the arts in Italy including the a world renowned music school in Sermoneta Italy, the Caetani Library in Rome and the Gardens of Ninfa.

Event sponsors included Bannister GM Vernon, MQN Architects and Don Kassa Remax.

Other sponsors included Avalon Event Rentals, Blenz Coffee, Rothwell Auction and Entertainment and Uprooted Kitchen and Catering Company.

For more information on the Caetani Centre visit their website.