There appears to be interest in permanent taxpayer support for a cultural organization. The North Okanagan Artists Alternative has asked the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee for ongoing funding for Gallery Vertigo. “It’s something the committee needs to look at. The arts are an important part of our community,” said Wayne Lippert, GVAC chairman. “Gallery Vertigo has proven to be a function worth supporting.” Director Mike Macnabb is also impressed with the activities provided by Gallery Vertigo. “Personally I think it’s a good idea but ongoing funding is always an issue,” he said. For the first time ever, GVAC has budgeted $15,000 for Gallery Vertigo in 2010 but there is no guarantee that assistance will continue in subsequent years. “Programming offered at Gallery Vertigo is filling a real need in the community,” said Katie Brennan, a NOAA director. “Gallery Vertigo is the only artist-run centre in the North Okanagan.” It currently has one paid employee, and revenue is generated through membership fees, studio rentals, art sales, donations and fundraisers. “Fundraising isn’t covering the programs,” said Judith Jurica, gallery curator. It’s also hoped funding from GVAC will leverage money from senior levels of government. “Any bids (for funds) at the provincial level will not be met with success if we’re not supported at the local level,” said Brennan. “If you want the arts to thrive in the Okanagan, you need to support artist-run galleries and public galleries because they offer two different things.”
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