A government grant will keep the Vernon Public Art Gallery鈥檚 programming coming amid the pandemic.
VPAG was named one of 588 arts and culture organizations and was granted $43,400 as part of the BC Arts Council鈥檚 $14-million one-time supplement through StrongerBC.
The funds will allow for the gallery to keep its staff and doors open to the public while creating digital programming for those who may be isolated.
鈥淭he importance of mental health has been highlighted through the pandemic indicating the increased need for creative and social outlets,鈥� VPAG executive director Dauna Kennedy said. 鈥淎t the VPAG we strive to make visual culture accessible to all, either in person or virtually during this time of isolation.鈥�
Since the pandemic鈥檚 start, the art gallery has been determined to continue to exhibit art and pivoted its programming online. More than 6,800 participants have engaged with its online programming since April 2020.
New this year, the gallery is presenting virtual artist talks, free of charge, with artists from around the world to complement its exhibition on view: The Okanagan Print Triennial 2021.
Vernon-Monashee MLA Harwinder Sandhu said she鈥檚 excited to see the government support the local art gallery.
鈥淭he arts, in all forms, are truly a defining feature of cultures and communities,鈥� she said. 鈥淚f we want to see our vibrant arts community continue to thrive after the COVID-19 pandemic is over, its important that we support them through this difficult time.鈥�
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Caitlin.clow@vernonmorningstar.com
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