Record Total for Arts Fundraiser

Hundreds of arts and culture supporters helped raise a a record total for the Vernon Public Art Gallery.

The 31st annual Midsummer’s Eve of the Arts at the Turtle Mountain Winery generated $61,000, up ten thousand from last year.

The Gallery’s Executive director Dauna Kennedy Grant says the funds are invested into gallery programs and operations.

“A big component of the fundraising the last three years has gone into the art education, and developing that further for all ages in the community. We have seen overwhelming success since we’ve implemented that program,” Kennedy Grant told Kiss FM in an interview.

Photo: Don Raffan, auctioneer, and MC Jason Armstrong of Kiss FM at the Midsummer’s Eve of the Arts. (Facebook)

Kennedy Grant says two items generated the most interest.

“A Luis Fuentes piece went for $2800, and that was donated by Neil and Jillian Williams. We were thrilled and excited to see that. We had the Rail Trail piece by Rick Bond. That went for $2700.”

Kennedy Grant says it’s the third straight year for a record fundraising total.

“I think it’s indicative of what’s happening with arts and culture in the community. With the adoption of the arts and culture master plan, and just seeing things progressing forward, people are starting to see the value of the art gallery.”

There is also action from local politicians with the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee agreeing Thursday to issue a request for proposals to look at possible sites and designs for a new multi use cultural facility, pending Regional District of North Okanagan staff providing an estimated cost for the facility.