Although the Vernon Public Art Gallery has closed its doors to exhibitions and programming due to the recent flooding of its building from a city water main break, the gallery’s gift shop is now in a new home.
The VPAG has set up its revenue making venture in a temporary location at the former Vernon Flower Shop to try and minimize losses for both the gallery and the artisans who consign their work in the shop.
The shop carries only handmade items, primarily by local artisans, including pottery, jewelry, fibre art, glass works, wood works, seasonal items, and art cards.
“It acts as a small, but important source of revenue for the gallery and the Christmas season is the busiest time of year,” said VPAG executive director Dauna Kennedy Grant. “It would be a big loss to many if the gallery shop closed its doors too.”
The City of Vernon has approved the new location of the shop, and staff administration has also set up its office in the vacant building, which is located just two blocks away from the flood damaged gallery on 31st Avenue.
The temporary location also happens to be the designated site for the proposed new art gallery facility in downtown Vernon.
“As hectic as it’s been over the last couple of weeks, we want to keep our spirits up this Christmas,” said Kennedy Grant. “Although the largest, this isn’t the first disaster the gallery has experienced and we will persevere.”
The Vernon Public Art Gallery asks the public to show their support by visiting the gallery shop at its temporary location until Dec. 24.
“Come browse the gallery shop for holiday gift items, purchase a gift card or gallery membership. Have a look at the site and vision standing in a new state-of-the-art cultural facility with many opportunities for the community. A new facility can be a reality. We have exhausted our resources in temporary locations,” said Kennedy Grant.
The temporary shop is located at 3011-31st Ave. and will be open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Staff are available to answer any questions or concerns at 250-545-3173.
Staff say they hope to have the VPAG reopened for its next exhibitions in January.
