The Penticton and District Community Arts Council is welcoming a new executive director.
Vaelei Walkden-Brown, owner of the downtown gallery and performance venue the 557 Artist Block closing next month, is taking over the position for former executive director Lynn Allin.
Allin became the executive director of the Downtown Penticton Association in July.
“We are very happy and excited to welcome Vaelei to this position,” said Eric Hanston, president of the board of directors. “We’ve been extremely impressed with the work that Vaelei has done over the past 14 months with her art gallery — the 557 Artist Block. Her energy and advocacy for the local arts scene fits perfectly with the Arts Council’s mission and vision for the future of the arts in Penticton.”
Born and raised in Edmonton, Walkden-Brown returned to Canada from Perth, Australia to visit her parents in Penticton and never left.
She transformed a downtown retail space into the Artist Block which started as a gallery and grew into the role of hosting live music from local bands like The Dinosaurs to international acts like Japanese-American percussionist Tatsuya Nakatani
“I am honoured to be given this opportunity to work as an advocate and representative for the amazing art community of Penticton and district,” Walkden-Brown said. “I look forward to continuing to build awareness and support for our vibrant and growing arts culture. We have an exciting schedule of events coming up for 2017.”
Some of those events include comedian Cathy Jones’ live show in February followed by the fourth annual Arts Awards. Walkden-Brown said the council is in the planning stages to bring the first annual arts and music festival in Penticton next fall.
The Penticton and District Community Arts Council has been operating in Penticton since 1960 and aim to stimulate, encourage and foster arts in the community.
Anyone can become a member of the Penticton Arts Council by registering in person at the Leir House, 220 Manor Park Avenue, or by visiting online at www.pentictonartscouncil.com.
