After patiently waiting to hear a reply from the Young Canada Works program, the Vernon Public Art Gallery finally received notice that the gallery was granted funding for one seasonal position.
“And thank goodness, as the work load is considerable over the summer with two of the biggest gallery events: Midsummer’s Eve of the Arts and Riot on the Roof taking place in July and August each year,” said marketing and programming coordinator Kelly MacIntosh.
VPAG welcomes Kirsten Barkved, fourth year UBCO student enrolled in the creative writing program and women’s studies. Having lived in Kelowna and Vancouver in the recent past, and now calling Vernon home, Barkved will contribute her talent and experience from living in the Okanagan and Lower Mainland to this summer’s events.
“She comes from a family of visual artists and it only makes sense that she chooses to contribute her creativity to the community through arts and culture, whether it be creative writing, performing arts or visual arts,” said MacIntosh.
Her role at the gallery will be Youth Ambassador and organizer of the 2012 Riot on the Roof, and her primary role includes soliciting and scheduling musicians, visual and performing artists, and fashion/hair/makeup designers for the event.
“Her enthusiasm, creative energy and connection with a youthful audience will no doubt make this the best Riot on the Roof event yet,” said MacIntosh.
A sample of Barkved’s artistic talent can be viewed in the Vancouver- based SubTerrain magazine.
“I’m so excited for this summer. I came to the gallery as a little girl for weekend workshops. I remember making paper mache masks and collage art on picture frames — which still sit on my shelf in my bedroom — so it’s great to be here,” said Barkved. “I’m thrilled to be planning Riot on the Roof — the arts are incredibly crucial to the community, especially youth, to give them the opportunity to be a part of something innovative, something out of the ordinary.
“Last year’s Riot on the Roof event had so much success and creativity, and I hope to bring even more to it in our fourth run of the event.”
Riot on the Roof takes place Aug. 25 on the top two floors of the Vernon Parkade. For details, call 250-545-3173.
