Showing posts with label art gallery. Show all posts
Showing posts with label art gallery. Show all posts
Saturday, May 26, 2018
Two Sites Considered For Complex
Vernon, BC, Canada / 1075 Beach Radio Vernon Pete McIntyre May 25, 2018 03:30 pm
The chair of the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee says it’s basically down to two sites for a proposed new cultural complex. Plans for the 40 million dollar multi purpose facility were unveiled this week by the Regional District of North Okanagan. Juliette Cunningham says the former Coldstream Hotel parking lot on 32nd Avenue and 29th Street, and the Civic Arena site are the preferred locations. She says both are owned by the city of Vernon. “We’ve sent a letter to the city, asking for them to confirm the site they would prefer to give up for the project,” Cunningham tells Beach Radio News. Cunningham says another possible site, the former Flower Shop on 31st Avenue, is not practical. “The configuration of that is not practical. It’s kind of a small piece that jots out towards 32nd Avenue, so it’s just awkward layout of a site.” Cunningham says they are working towards a joint facility, with also some space for community groups. “Basically it could be used for smaller events. That’s what we found when we did the cultural master plan was the need for a venue like that because the Performing Arts Centre is too big for some of the groups.” She says they are trying to organize a referendum for this October, on borrowing 25 million dollars for the 40 million dollar project. “Probably by the end of June we’ll have an idea is that’s feasible or not. We would like to do that because it’s quite cost effective.”
Wednesday, May 23, 2018
New Vernon art gallery and museum given $40M price tag
May 23, 2018 - 12:48 PM Infotel News.Ca
VERNON - The cost of a new cultural centre for Vernon’s museum and art gallery would cost an estimated $40 million. The new facility has been in the works for years and would be built somewhere in Vernon’s city centre. Today, the Regional District of North Okanagan released a preliminary funding strategy for the building. With a proposed facility size of 58,000 square feet, the total project budget is pegged at $40 million with construction starting in 2020. The preliminary funding strategy approved by the Board of Directors proposes using project timing to moderate the tax impact on Greater Vernon residents, states the release. The Regional District has agreed to go to referendum for up to $25 million for the project, which is $1.2 million more than the $23.8 million in debt that will come off of the books from the construction of Kal Tire Place and the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre by 2022, the district says. “By timing this project with the elimination of the debt from Kal Tire Place and the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre, we can aim to complete this amazing community project while minimizing the impact on taxpayers,” board chair Bob Fleming says in the release. Within the $40 million budget is $3.34 million for pre-construction and project management costs, $29.38 million for construction, $5.78 million for construction contingency and $1.5 million for a land purchase contingency.
“The Greater Vernon cultural facility will be more than a community asset,” Juliette Cunningham, chair of the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee says. “It will be an investment in our city. A cultural destination like this will draw people downtown. When more people are downtown people feel safer, restaurants and businesses are busier, and we see a greater economic benefit to our region.” While the ability to borrow will need to be approved through referendum, the district hopes that approval of the funding strategy will provide the community with the confidence to begin fundraising efforts for the project. The funding strategy for the project, which has been approved in principle, is subject to the selection of the site and finalization of the project budget, the district says. It is proposed that the project funding be made up of $25 million from regional district borrowing, $6 million from infrastructure grants, $5 million through partnership contributions, and $4 million through fundraising and donations. “The regional district is now working with the community partners and the City of Vernon to evaluate sites for the facility. Once a site has been selected, the preliminary concept plan and budget can be adjusted for the site and taken out for public consultation, and a timeline for the project, including all funding requirements, can be developed,” the district says.
VERNON - The cost of a new cultural centre for Vernon’s museum and art gallery would cost an estimated $40 million. The new facility has been in the works for years and would be built somewhere in Vernon’s city centre. Today, the Regional District of North Okanagan released a preliminary funding strategy for the building. With a proposed facility size of 58,000 square feet, the total project budget is pegged at $40 million with construction starting in 2020. The preliminary funding strategy approved by the Board of Directors proposes using project timing to moderate the tax impact on Greater Vernon residents, states the release. The Regional District has agreed to go to referendum for up to $25 million for the project, which is $1.2 million more than the $23.8 million in debt that will come off of the books from the construction of Kal Tire Place and the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre by 2022, the district says. “By timing this project with the elimination of the debt from Kal Tire Place and the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre, we can aim to complete this amazing community project while minimizing the impact on taxpayers,” board chair Bob Fleming says in the release. Within the $40 million budget is $3.34 million for pre-construction and project management costs, $29.38 million for construction, $5.78 million for construction contingency and $1.5 million for a land purchase contingency.
“The Greater Vernon cultural facility will be more than a community asset,” Juliette Cunningham, chair of the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee says. “It will be an investment in our city. A cultural destination like this will draw people downtown. When more people are downtown people feel safer, restaurants and businesses are busier, and we see a greater economic benefit to our region.” While the ability to borrow will need to be approved through referendum, the district hopes that approval of the funding strategy will provide the community with the confidence to begin fundraising efforts for the project. The funding strategy for the project, which has been approved in principle, is subject to the selection of the site and finalization of the project budget, the district says. It is proposed that the project funding be made up of $25 million from regional district borrowing, $6 million from infrastructure grants, $5 million through partnership contributions, and $4 million through fundraising and donations. “The regional district is now working with the community partners and the City of Vernon to evaluate sites for the facility. Once a site has been selected, the preliminary concept plan and budget can be adjusted for the site and taken out for public consultation, and a timeline for the project, including all funding requirements, can be developed,” the district says.
Thursday, January 25, 2018
107.5 BEACH RADIO Vernon Poll
http://www.beachradiovernon.ca/
Results as at 2 PM
Where do you think a new combined Vernon Art Gallery and Museum should go?
Vernon Flower Shop site (6)
Coldstream Hotel Site (12)
Civic Arena land (27)
Polson Park (3)
Results as at 2 PM
Where do you think a new combined Vernon Art Gallery and Museum should go?
Vernon Flower Shop site (6)
Coldstream Hotel Site (12)
Civic Arena land (27)
Polson Park (3)
Wednesday, January 24, 2018
Plans For Cultural Facility Outlined
Vernon, BC, Canada / 1075 Beach Radio Vernon Pete McIntyre January 24, 2018 04:12 pm
A consulting team has outlined the general features for a multi-purpose cultural facility for Greater Vernon. Diamond Schmidt Architects is recommending a 57-thousand square foot space, to house an art galley, museum and other public space. Greater Vernon Advisory chair Juliette Cunningham says the study has shown the groups can share a facility — and benefit from it. “It creates bigger opportunities for reaching a greater audience, so that’s really positive. The evidence shows that happens. The attendance for both the co-located organizations really goes up dramatically,” Cunningham told Beach Radio News following a special GVAC meeting at the Okanagan Regional Library, due to ongoing renovations at the RDNO office.Cunningham says there’s also plans for common space for other organizations. “We’ve heard there is a need for a smaller space. Music groups, dance groups, whatever, where they need 250 to 300 seats. That kind of thing, and that’s a model that’s been used across the country.”
The study mentions four publicly-owned sites to consider: the Vernon Flower Shop, Coldstream Hotel site, Polson Park, and the Civic Arena land. Detailed cost estimates for those sites will be among the next steps. The committee hasn’t ruled out considering private sites, but one of the consultants said those can be challenging as they may not be available for long, due to the hot real estate market. The executive director of the Vernon Art Gallery likes the general program for a proposed new cultural facility.Dauna Kennedy-Grant says it’s been a positive process. “They’ve met with all of the stakeholders, in terms of what we need for programming space, and they’ve taken all that and kind of combined it to see what needs to be dedicated space, and what needs to be shared space,” says Kennedy Grant. Kennedy-Grant says they like the look of the plan. “It’s probably doubling the art gallery space (from current), probably doubling the museum space. That’s what we’re looking at, but some of the services, we will be able to share. Back of house services and stuff like that.” GVAC and RDNO officials hope to have enough information in place to hold a referendum on a cultural facility during this October’s municipal elections.
Click here for more on the cultural facility plan.
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Also see https://www.vernonmorningstar.com/news/four-sites-eyed-for-new-vernon-cultural-facility/
A consulting team has outlined the general features for a multi-purpose cultural facility for Greater Vernon. Diamond Schmidt Architects is recommending a 57-thousand square foot space, to house an art galley, museum and other public space. Greater Vernon Advisory chair Juliette Cunningham says the study has shown the groups can share a facility — and benefit from it. “It creates bigger opportunities for reaching a greater audience, so that’s really positive. The evidence shows that happens. The attendance for both the co-located organizations really goes up dramatically,” Cunningham told Beach Radio News following a special GVAC meeting at the Okanagan Regional Library, due to ongoing renovations at the RDNO office.Cunningham says there’s also plans for common space for other organizations. “We’ve heard there is a need for a smaller space. Music groups, dance groups, whatever, where they need 250 to 300 seats. That kind of thing, and that’s a model that’s been used across the country.”
The study mentions four publicly-owned sites to consider: the Vernon Flower Shop, Coldstream Hotel site, Polson Park, and the Civic Arena land. Detailed cost estimates for those sites will be among the next steps. The committee hasn’t ruled out considering private sites, but one of the consultants said those can be challenging as they may not be available for long, due to the hot real estate market. The executive director of the Vernon Art Gallery likes the general program for a proposed new cultural facility.Dauna Kennedy-Grant says it’s been a positive process. “They’ve met with all of the stakeholders, in terms of what we need for programming space, and they’ve taken all that and kind of combined it to see what needs to be dedicated space, and what needs to be shared space,” says Kennedy Grant. Kennedy-Grant says they like the look of the plan. “It’s probably doubling the art gallery space (from current), probably doubling the museum space. That’s what we’re looking at, but some of the services, we will be able to share. Back of house services and stuff like that.” GVAC and RDNO officials hope to have enough information in place to hold a referendum on a cultural facility during this October’s municipal elections.
Click here for more on the cultural facility plan.
-----------
Also see https://www.vernonmorningstar.com/news/four-sites-eyed-for-new-vernon-cultural-facility/
Monday, August 21, 2017
New Cultural Centre For Vernon A Step Closer
Vernon, BC, Canada / 1075 KISS FM Tom Mark August 21, 2017 06:42 am
RDNO staff are being directed to begin the process of preparing a Request for Proposal for for a consultant study on a new multi-purpose cultural facility for Vernon. Board Chair Bob Fleming says the board approved the first two phases of study. “It’s an odd term, but we’re calling it a ‘right-sizing. So we’re looking at what could be in the facility. Obviously the two main anchors being looked at are the museum and the art gallery. But they are also looking at multi-use space.” Fleming says they’ve also looked at other facilities. “In the report, there was a comparison to communities that have facilities relatively recently built and what sizes have been constructed in other communities. The types of facilities.” One hundred thousand dollars has been set aside for the process, including the eventual design. The consultant will also look at possible locations. “What are the best places? What are the upsides and what are the downsides to any one location? You know, obviously access, parking, proximity to other services.” The third phase would be the actual design. It all has to be approved by the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee.
RDNO staff are being directed to begin the process of preparing a Request for Proposal for for a consultant study on a new multi-purpose cultural facility for Vernon. Board Chair Bob Fleming says the board approved the first two phases of study. “It’s an odd term, but we’re calling it a ‘right-sizing. So we’re looking at what could be in the facility. Obviously the two main anchors being looked at are the museum and the art gallery. But they are also looking at multi-use space.” Fleming says they’ve also looked at other facilities. “In the report, there was a comparison to communities that have facilities relatively recently built and what sizes have been constructed in other communities. The types of facilities.” One hundred thousand dollars has been set aside for the process, including the eventual design. The consultant will also look at possible locations. “What are the best places? What are the upsides and what are the downsides to any one location? You know, obviously access, parking, proximity to other services.” The third phase would be the actual design. It all has to be approved by the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee.
Saturday, July 15, 2017
Multi-use Cultural Facility – Preliminary Design and Planning RFP
GREATER VERNON ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING
Thursday, July 20, 2017 Boardroom - 9848 Aberdeen Road, Coldstream, BC 9:00 a.m.
Multi-use Cultural Facility – Preliminary Design and Planning RFP
Staff reported dated June 14, 2017
RECOMMENDATION 2 Page 2 - 10
That it be recommended to the Board of Directors, staff be directed to issue the RFP #2017-P12 – Greater Vernon Multi-Purpose Cultural Facility Functional Program, Site Analysis and Conceptual Design, as included in the staff report dated June 14, 2017.
170614_RPT_GVAC_MPCF_Workplan
Thursday, July 20, 2017 Boardroom - 9848 Aberdeen Road, Coldstream, BC 9:00 a.m.
Multi-use Cultural Facility – Preliminary Design and Planning RFP
Staff reported dated June 14, 2017
RECOMMENDATION 2 Page 2 - 10
That it be recommended to the Board of Directors, staff be directed to issue the RFP #2017-P12 – Greater Vernon Multi-Purpose Cultural Facility Functional Program, Site Analysis and Conceptual Design, as included in the staff report dated June 14, 2017.
170614_RPT_GVAC_MPCF_Workplan
Thursday, January 26, 2017
Cultural Facility Reserve Debated Vernon
1075 KISS FM Pete McIntyre January 26, 2017 05:35 pm
Local politicians are talking about the idea for a cultural facility reserve fund. Greater Vernon Advisory Chair Juliette Cunningham says staff is suggesting 187 thousand dollars be used for a future new facility. “So it’s just a matter of deciding so you take it out of a reserve or do you take it out of taxation I guess. That will be the next thing we have to answer as a committee,” says Cunningham. However, Director Bob Spiers is concerned taxpayers money would be put away to build a possible new facility, rather than maintain existing ones. “You don’t tax people now to put money away I guess for the capital costs of an art gallery and museum. That’s what those two are for,” says Spiers. Other directors like Jim Garlick and Doug Dirk had concerns with putting money into a reserve fund for a new facility. However, Cunningham says as part of the new cultural plan, the committee agreed to look at a facility reserve. Director Jim Garlick suggested its important to start looking at possible sites for a new facility, some of which the regional district may already own. The discussion came during debate of the 2017 Greater Vernon Parks, Recreation and Culture budget which will need more discussion before its approved.
Local politicians are talking about the idea for a cultural facility reserve fund. Greater Vernon Advisory Chair Juliette Cunningham says staff is suggesting 187 thousand dollars be used for a future new facility. “So it’s just a matter of deciding so you take it out of a reserve or do you take it out of taxation I guess. That will be the next thing we have to answer as a committee,” says Cunningham. However, Director Bob Spiers is concerned taxpayers money would be put away to build a possible new facility, rather than maintain existing ones. “You don’t tax people now to put money away I guess for the capital costs of an art gallery and museum. That’s what those two are for,” says Spiers. Other directors like Jim Garlick and Doug Dirk had concerns with putting money into a reserve fund for a new facility. However, Cunningham says as part of the new cultural plan, the committee agreed to look at a facility reserve. Director Jim Garlick suggested its important to start looking at possible sites for a new facility, some of which the regional district may already own. The discussion came during debate of the 2017 Greater Vernon Parks, Recreation and Culture budget which will need more discussion before its approved.
Thursday, July 07, 2016
Team To Look Into Multi Purpose Cultural Facility
Posted on 7/7/2016 12:31 PM by Pete McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM
A new facility housing local arts and culture groups under one roof is getting some political traction. The Greater Vernon Advisory Committee has approved forming an action team to look into a multi purpose building that could accommodate an art gallery, museum and other groups. GVAC director Mike Macnabb says it makes more sense than each group having separate facilities. "I think it's a great use of space, and that's where we should be looking. There is common ground for the museum and art gallery, and to duplicate in two separate facilities does not make sense to me, so I think this is a fantastic way of approaching it," Macnabb tells Kiss FM. The action team will include arts and culture reps, an Okanagan Indian Band member, Black Box Performance Space, Social Planning Council, an architect, a community member, GVAC directors, and will be led by regional district staff. The team will give input and make recommendations to the RDNO board. "I'm glad that staff will be there directing it. We don't want them running off in different directions, and all coming with different proposals, saying what they individually want. We want a shared vision coming forward," adds Macnabb, director for BX Silver Star. GVAC chair Juliette Cunningham says the end goal will be for a referendum on the issue, perhaps by next year. "We are really trying to accelerate it because there's been a lot of frustration from the cultural community. This is something that's been asked for for some time, and I think we have the fundamentals in place now to get some momentum," says Cunningham. GVAC director Jim Garlick says the idea of the groups using shared space, could cut down on the building's size. "We need to look at the requests, the projections for area, and the past uses, and there's really overlap in it, so we need to make best use of the area within the buildings." No potential sites have been mentioned yet.
A new facility housing local arts and culture groups under one roof is getting some political traction. The Greater Vernon Advisory Committee has approved forming an action team to look into a multi purpose building that could accommodate an art gallery, museum and other groups. GVAC director Mike Macnabb says it makes more sense than each group having separate facilities. "I think it's a great use of space, and that's where we should be looking. There is common ground for the museum and art gallery, and to duplicate in two separate facilities does not make sense to me, so I think this is a fantastic way of approaching it," Macnabb tells Kiss FM. The action team will include arts and culture reps, an Okanagan Indian Band member, Black Box Performance Space, Social Planning Council, an architect, a community member, GVAC directors, and will be led by regional district staff. The team will give input and make recommendations to the RDNO board. "I'm glad that staff will be there directing it. We don't want them running off in different directions, and all coming with different proposals, saying what they individually want. We want a shared vision coming forward," adds Macnabb, director for BX Silver Star. GVAC chair Juliette Cunningham says the end goal will be for a referendum on the issue, perhaps by next year. "We are really trying to accelerate it because there's been a lot of frustration from the cultural community. This is something that's been asked for for some time, and I think we have the fundamentals in place now to get some momentum," says Cunningham. GVAC director Jim Garlick says the idea of the groups using shared space, could cut down on the building's size. "We need to look at the requests, the projections for area, and the past uses, and there's really overlap in it, so we need to make best use of the area within the buildings." No potential sites have been mentioned yet.
Monday, March 28, 2016
Another Referendum is Likely
Posted on 3/28/2016 6:45 AM by Ron Manz 107.5 KISSFM
Greater Vernon residents could be heading for another referendum. The chair of the Greater Vernon Museum and Archives, Dan Stuart, believes a new expanded museum and art gallery are a must for the community. He adds, it took a referendum to get the ball rolling on a new arena....and he feels the same situation exists for the museum and art gallery. "They got the referendum on the arena passed, although we are dealing with a different group of people. There are people that want art galleries and want museums and want cultural things out there." Stuart says they have a whole new board that has been elected and they plan to be very vocal about getting approval for a new art gallery and expanded museum facility....and a referendum to approve that construction is likely. "We're really going to be pushing this museum-art gallery and the funding and everything the Regional District is working on because we are going to have representatives on that steering committee as well." Stuart says the arts community is growing and this issue is bigger than just the museum and art gallery. ":We're not just talking just the art gallery or just the museum. There are more groups involved in this overall. We have to look at the bigger picture. It will all be looked at as a whole with other information we will have to pull into the whole thing." The Regional District North Okanagan approved the new Greater Vernon Cultural Plan last week which covers a new art gallery and expanded museum.
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107.5 KISSFM POLL Results as at 7:00 AM
Greater Vernon residents could be heading for another referendum. The chair of the Greater Vernon Museum and Archives, Dan Stuart, believes a new expanded museum and art gallery are a must for the community. He adds, it took a referendum to get the ball rolling on a new arena....and he feels the same situation exists for the museum and art gallery. "They got the referendum on the arena passed, although we are dealing with a different group of people. There are people that want art galleries and want museums and want cultural things out there." Stuart says they have a whole new board that has been elected and they plan to be very vocal about getting approval for a new art gallery and expanded museum facility....and a referendum to approve that construction is likely. "We're really going to be pushing this museum-art gallery and the funding and everything the Regional District is working on because we are going to have representatives on that steering committee as well." Stuart says the arts community is growing and this issue is bigger than just the museum and art gallery. ":We're not just talking just the art gallery or just the museum. There are more groups involved in this overall. We have to look at the bigger picture. It will all be looked at as a whole with other information we will have to pull into the whole thing." The Regional District North Okanagan approved the new Greater Vernon Cultural Plan last week which covers a new art gallery and expanded museum.
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107.5 KISSFM POLL Results as at 7:00 AM
Do you think a referendum is needed to approve new art gallery and expanded museum for Greater Vernon?
| Yes | |
|---|---|
| No |
Thursday, March 10, 2016
Plan Sets Stage For Facility Discussion
Posted on 3/10/2016 by Pete McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM
It took almost two years to complete, but Greater Vernon's cultural plan is now done, and just needing final political approval. That's expected March 23rd at the Regional District of North Okanagan board meeting. The document will guide culture, arts and heritage in the community for the next decade. 100-thousand dollars was budgeted to develop it back in 2014. Greater Vernon Advisory chair Juliette Cunningham one of the new elements will see an advisory committee formed to look at gaps in facilities. "Then it would be up to that committee to bring recommendations forward. They could recommend we should look at an art gallery or museum, or whatever," Cunningham tells Kiss FM. Cunningham says the advisory panel will be made up from members of the cultural community. "In the past, they have always felt, when there's talk of art galleries or museums, that they have no opportunity to be a part of that, so that's a pretty important difference," says Cunningham. GVAC put plans for a referendum for a new art gallery and expanded museum on hold in 2013 after cost estimates doubled to 35 million dollars. The plans were again put on hold in 2014, to allow for the cultural plan to be completed. GVAC Area C director Mike Macnabb says big ticket projects like that, need strong community support before they can be put to votes. "That's why it's so important to get the public feedback (from the advisory panel) on this stuff. You can't have one group that might be very vocal demanding this or that and then find out that, really, there isn't that much community support, so that's the test that we want to measure this," says Macnabb.
It took almost two years to complete, but Greater Vernon's cultural plan is now done, and just needing final political approval. That's expected March 23rd at the Regional District of North Okanagan board meeting. The document will guide culture, arts and heritage in the community for the next decade. 100-thousand dollars was budgeted to develop it back in 2014. Greater Vernon Advisory chair Juliette Cunningham one of the new elements will see an advisory committee formed to look at gaps in facilities. "Then it would be up to that committee to bring recommendations forward. They could recommend we should look at an art gallery or museum, or whatever," Cunningham tells Kiss FM. Cunningham says the advisory panel will be made up from members of the cultural community. "In the past, they have always felt, when there's talk of art galleries or museums, that they have no opportunity to be a part of that, so that's a pretty important difference," says Cunningham. GVAC put plans for a referendum for a new art gallery and expanded museum on hold in 2013 after cost estimates doubled to 35 million dollars. The plans were again put on hold in 2014, to allow for the cultural plan to be completed. GVAC Area C director Mike Macnabb says big ticket projects like that, need strong community support before they can be put to votes. "That's why it's so important to get the public feedback (from the advisory panel) on this stuff. You can't have one group that might be very vocal demanding this or that and then find out that, really, there isn't that much community support, so that's the test that we want to measure this," says Macnabb.
Sunday, January 17, 2016
Cultural process debated
by Jennifer Smith - Vernon Morning Star posted Jan 17, 2016 at 1:00 AM
Cultural plans are generating concerns in Coldstream. The district had community development co-ordinator Tannis Nelson, with the Regional District of North Okanagan, share details with council Monday. “It’s an extensive undertaking that the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee has been working our way through,” said Nelson. Currently, publicly funded facilities include the Performing Arts Centre, Greater Vernon Museum and Archives, Vernon Public Art Gallery and Vernon Arts Centre. But the plan is to move away from programming and focus on the buildings. “We are more interested in providing facilities,” said Nelson. Five-year agreements are being looked at with an envelope of funds set aside each year for the various organizations to apply for. “So the arts centre, if you need a new boiler, you can apply for it and that will be weighed against new tile in the bathroom at the museum,” said Nelson as an example. It is a slightly different approach that moves RDNO away from being responsible for everything. Currently, in the case of the art gallery, RDNO leases the space for the purposes of an art gallery but Vernon owns the space. Therefore recent leaks are the responsibility of Vernon. “As the landlord, they step in and take care of it,” said Coldstream Mayor Jim Garlick. But it is the addition of facilities and/or organizations that has some concerned. And the process more than anything. Coun. Doug Dirk has been around long enough to recall the problems that would arise during the old model. Which is why he maintains the importance of the current process where unanimous consent is gained from all members. That includes the possible addition of the Okanagan Science Centre and the building under the cultural plan. “There needs to be a decision made about who is in and who is out,” said Dirk. “What happens now if the gymnastics club or any other club comes along?” Dirk says he doesn’t have a problem with adding anything, as long as it goes through the proper process. He also points out that some of the services currently looked after by RDNO are under-funded. Coldstream agreed to support maintaining the service levels as they currently sit, without any additions for now. “The idea is that moving forward we may not be adding organizations at all but rather buildings,” said Nelson.
Cultural plans are generating concerns in Coldstream. The district had community development co-ordinator Tannis Nelson, with the Regional District of North Okanagan, share details with council Monday. “It’s an extensive undertaking that the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee has been working our way through,” said Nelson. Currently, publicly funded facilities include the Performing Arts Centre, Greater Vernon Museum and Archives, Vernon Public Art Gallery and Vernon Arts Centre. But the plan is to move away from programming and focus on the buildings. “We are more interested in providing facilities,” said Nelson. Five-year agreements are being looked at with an envelope of funds set aside each year for the various organizations to apply for. “So the arts centre, if you need a new boiler, you can apply for it and that will be weighed against new tile in the bathroom at the museum,” said Nelson as an example. It is a slightly different approach that moves RDNO away from being responsible for everything. Currently, in the case of the art gallery, RDNO leases the space for the purposes of an art gallery but Vernon owns the space. Therefore recent leaks are the responsibility of Vernon. “As the landlord, they step in and take care of it,” said Coldstream Mayor Jim Garlick. But it is the addition of facilities and/or organizations that has some concerned. And the process more than anything. Coun. Doug Dirk has been around long enough to recall the problems that would arise during the old model. Which is why he maintains the importance of the current process where unanimous consent is gained from all members. That includes the possible addition of the Okanagan Science Centre and the building under the cultural plan. “There needs to be a decision made about who is in and who is out,” said Dirk. “What happens now if the gymnastics club or any other club comes along?” Dirk says he doesn’t have a problem with adding anything, as long as it goes through the proper process. He also points out that some of the services currently looked after by RDNO are under-funded. Coldstream agreed to support maintaining the service levels as they currently sit, without any additions for now. “The idea is that moving forward we may not be adding organizations at all but rather buildings,” said Nelson.
Wednesday, January 06, 2016
Another water leak creates challenges at Vernon Public Art Gallery
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Jan 6, 2016 at 11:00 AM
Pools of water are reigniting calls for a new art gallery in Greater Vernon. Melting snow began leaking into the Vernon Public Art Gallery Wednesday morning. “We have regular leaks that we keep buckets under but now we have a new one. It’s always interesting to see where they pop up,” said Dauna Kennedy Grant, executive director. “It’s coming down on our storage area and we’re monitoring to make sure the collection is safe.” However, Kennedy Grant fears the next leak will damage paintings and other items. “It’s never-wracking to determine where they will occur.” The gallery is located on the ground floor of the parkade on 31st Avenue. “This building was never meant to be an art gallery and we continue to put Band-Aids on it,” said Kennedy Grant. The City of Vernon, which owns the parkade, has been notified of the current situation. “Apparently this leak is not an easy fix and could be a big job to fix it properly as a patch will potentially pop up leaks elsewhere,” said Kennedy Grant. VPAG has been lobbying for a purpose-built gallery for years, but the possibility of going to referendum stalled as the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee developed a master cultural plan. “They won’t let us move forward without having that plan adopted,” said Kennedy Grant. It’s expected that GVAC could adopt the master plan in January and then a cultural advisory group would be formed. “The debate around facilities and potential partnerships will happen there,” said Juliette Cunningham, GVAC chairperson. Cunningham would not speculate as to when, or if, a borrowing referendum for an art gallery could be held. The latest leak didn’t come as a surprise. “We know there are some deficiencies in that building,” said Cunningham. Kennedy Grant hopes the process for a new gallery moves ahead soon or public assets will continue to be at risk.“Our mandate is to preserve the art collection for the community. Our job is to add to the collection to document what is happening throughout time and in the community,” she said.
Pools of water are reigniting calls for a new art gallery in Greater Vernon. Melting snow began leaking into the Vernon Public Art Gallery Wednesday morning. “We have regular leaks that we keep buckets under but now we have a new one. It’s always interesting to see where they pop up,” said Dauna Kennedy Grant, executive director. “It’s coming down on our storage area and we’re monitoring to make sure the collection is safe.” However, Kennedy Grant fears the next leak will damage paintings and other items. “It’s never-wracking to determine where they will occur.” The gallery is located on the ground floor of the parkade on 31st Avenue. “This building was never meant to be an art gallery and we continue to put Band-Aids on it,” said Kennedy Grant. The City of Vernon, which owns the parkade, has been notified of the current situation. “Apparently this leak is not an easy fix and could be a big job to fix it properly as a patch will potentially pop up leaks elsewhere,” said Kennedy Grant. VPAG has been lobbying for a purpose-built gallery for years, but the possibility of going to referendum stalled as the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee developed a master cultural plan. “They won’t let us move forward without having that plan adopted,” said Kennedy Grant. It’s expected that GVAC could adopt the master plan in January and then a cultural advisory group would be formed. “The debate around facilities and potential partnerships will happen there,” said Juliette Cunningham, GVAC chairperson. Cunningham would not speculate as to when, or if, a borrowing referendum for an art gallery could be held. The latest leak didn’t come as a surprise. “We know there are some deficiencies in that building,” said Cunningham. Kennedy Grant hopes the process for a new gallery moves ahead soon or public assets will continue to be at risk.“Our mandate is to preserve the art collection for the community. Our job is to add to the collection to document what is happening throughout time and in the community,” she said.
Tuesday, December 01, 2015
Art gallery next, says mayor Kate Bouey - CASTANET Dec 1, 2015 / 10:15 am
Kate Bouey - CASTANET Dec 1, 2015 / 10:15 am
A new art gallery or “art cultural complex” could be next on Greater Vernon's agenda, following a successful referendum for a new ice sheet, according to Vernon Mayor Akbal Mund. On Saturday, Greater Vernon residents voted to borrow money to twin Kal Tire Place as a replacement for the aging Civic Arena. “It's something they deserve, and they've patiently waited, so that will be coming shortly, too,” said Mund. “They have been pushing this since the mid-2000s.” However, Mund added nothing could go forward until an arts and culture master plan was completed by staff and politicians at the North Okanagan Regional District. He said politicians had to move in the right direction and ensure it was “what the general public” wants. “We want to make sure we're doing the right thing,” said Mund, pointing to the possibility of a multi-use facility. “We're just finalizing the cultural plan at RDNO.” Even the chance the matter could be returning to the front burner was good news for Greater Vernon Public Art Gallery executive director Dauna Kennedy Grant. “Certainly, having the strong voice coming from the city that we now need to focus on culture, is something that we're really going to be pushing for,” said Kennedy Grant. “We've been working on this since 1986, when we first received a grant to build an art gallery. “It's long overdue, and the parkade location was only ever meant to be a five-year temporary location – we've been in there since the early '90s.” The gallery is open to the concept of an art-cultural complex, rather than a stand-alone gallery, said Kennedy Grant. “It all depends on what site. We wanted to look at the needs of the community, and so if there were other needs and other things that had to be incorporated into that building, that would be the perfect opportunity to deal with some of those things. “We're just looking forward to being able to have that conversation with the political body and with the general public to find out what the needs are.” The gallery knows what its needs are following a review this year by the Canadian Conservation Institute. A copy of that report has been given to the North Okanagan Regional District. “The homework has been done as to what the needs are,” said Grant, listing temperature and humidity control and how the permanent collection is housed as key problems at the current location. The estimated cost of building an art gallery is “probably about a $10 million price tag,” she said. “We already have the land,” said Kennedy Grant, referring to the old flower shop, city-owned property, at the corner of 31st Avenue and 31st Street.
A new art gallery or “art cultural complex” could be next on Greater Vernon's agenda, following a successful referendum for a new ice sheet, according to Vernon Mayor Akbal Mund. On Saturday, Greater Vernon residents voted to borrow money to twin Kal Tire Place as a replacement for the aging Civic Arena. “It's something they deserve, and they've patiently waited, so that will be coming shortly, too,” said Mund. “They have been pushing this since the mid-2000s.” However, Mund added nothing could go forward until an arts and culture master plan was completed by staff and politicians at the North Okanagan Regional District. He said politicians had to move in the right direction and ensure it was “what the general public” wants. “We want to make sure we're doing the right thing,” said Mund, pointing to the possibility of a multi-use facility. “We're just finalizing the cultural plan at RDNO.” Even the chance the matter could be returning to the front burner was good news for Greater Vernon Public Art Gallery executive director Dauna Kennedy Grant. “Certainly, having the strong voice coming from the city that we now need to focus on culture, is something that we're really going to be pushing for,” said Kennedy Grant. “We've been working on this since 1986, when we first received a grant to build an art gallery. “It's long overdue, and the parkade location was only ever meant to be a five-year temporary location – we've been in there since the early '90s.” The gallery is open to the concept of an art-cultural complex, rather than a stand-alone gallery, said Kennedy Grant. “It all depends on what site. We wanted to look at the needs of the community, and so if there were other needs and other things that had to be incorporated into that building, that would be the perfect opportunity to deal with some of those things. “We're just looking forward to being able to have that conversation with the political body and with the general public to find out what the needs are.” The gallery knows what its needs are following a review this year by the Canadian Conservation Institute. A copy of that report has been given to the North Okanagan Regional District. “The homework has been done as to what the needs are,” said Grant, listing temperature and humidity control and how the permanent collection is housed as key problems at the current location. The estimated cost of building an art gallery is “probably about a $10 million price tag,” she said. “We already have the land,” said Kennedy Grant, referring to the old flower shop, city-owned property, at the corner of 31st Avenue and 31st Street.
Saturday, October 24, 2015
Building a new arena is in the hands of Greater Vernon voters
October 23, 2015 - 8:00 PM By Charlotte Helston InfoNews.ca
VERNON - Greater Vernon residents will head to the polls to vote on a new arena next month. A referendum is set for Nov. 28 which will ask voters to borrow $13.2 million to decommission the Civic Arena and add a second arena at Kal Tire Place. “Civic has served its purpose, its time is due,” Vernon mayor Akbal Mund says. “This is the time, we need to move forward and proceed.” The initiative has been in the works for over two years, but got caught up in red tape with the provincial government. Now that it has a green light from the Ministry of Community Development to hold the referendum, it’s all systems go. “People are going to start saying they only have five weeks to get all the information they need to make a decision on what they want. The information will be there. We’ve been working on that knowing we were going to have a tight timeline,” Mund says. A series of open houses will be announced soon to provide voters with information about the proposal. The mayor expects not everyone will be keen on seeing a tax hike, while others might question how the arena will benefit them directly, particularly if they don’t participate in ice sports. “You really have to look at the bigger picture and say, who is this for? It’s for your grandchildren,” Mund says. The Vernon Farmers Market has expressed some concerns about the proposed location of the new arena, but Mund says the location is set and won’t be changing. “Professionals did the work and decided the best option was to go on the north side,” Mund says. Meanwhile, the Vernon Public Art Gallery has asked that a new gallery be put on the ballot, but that won’t be happening either. “We want to make sure we make the right decision and not rush into it,” Mund says. “It’s easy to say, let’s just do it, but you have to make sure it’s done right.”
VERNON - Greater Vernon residents will head to the polls to vote on a new arena next month. A referendum is set for Nov. 28 which will ask voters to borrow $13.2 million to decommission the Civic Arena and add a second arena at Kal Tire Place. “Civic has served its purpose, its time is due,” Vernon mayor Akbal Mund says. “This is the time, we need to move forward and proceed.” The initiative has been in the works for over two years, but got caught up in red tape with the provincial government. Now that it has a green light from the Ministry of Community Development to hold the referendum, it’s all systems go. “People are going to start saying they only have five weeks to get all the information they need to make a decision on what they want. The information will be there. We’ve been working on that knowing we were going to have a tight timeline,” Mund says. A series of open houses will be announced soon to provide voters with information about the proposal. The mayor expects not everyone will be keen on seeing a tax hike, while others might question how the arena will benefit them directly, particularly if they don’t participate in ice sports. “You really have to look at the bigger picture and say, who is this for? It’s for your grandchildren,” Mund says. The Vernon Farmers Market has expressed some concerns about the proposed location of the new arena, but Mund says the location is set and won’t be changing. “Professionals did the work and decided the best option was to go on the north side,” Mund says. Meanwhile, the Vernon Public Art Gallery has asked that a new gallery be put on the ballot, but that won’t be happening either. “We want to make sure we make the right decision and not rush into it,” Mund says. “It’s easy to say, let’s just do it, but you have to make sure it’s done right.”
Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Greater Vernon heads to referendum on new arena
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Oct 21, 2015 at 5:00 PM
Greater Vernon officials have left the bench and hit the ice in an attempt to garner voter support. It was announced Wednesday that a referendum will be held Nov. 28 to borrow $13.25 million to twin Kal Tire Place. "It's a compressed time scale," said David Sewell, Regional District of North Okanagan chief administrative officer. The Ministry of Community Development had been withholding approval of the referendum bylaw process, but final assent came Wednesday, paving the way for a referendum date to be set. The arena would be owned by RDNO and operated by the City of Vernon. Title would be transferred to the city in 20 years, bringing it in line with other local recreation facilities. Sewell is confident that all procedures for the referendum will be met. "We've been preparing for this and the City of Vernon is working on the communications side. We are prepared," he said. It is hoped that ice user groups will help make the public aware of the need to replace the aging Civic Arena as an ice sheet and expand Kal Tire Place to the north. "They are anxiously waiting and I am sure they are prepared to get the word out," said Juliette Cunningham, Greater Vernon Advisory Committee chairperson. However, there could be some challenges, including opposition from the Vernon Farmers Market, which uses the Kal Tire Parking lot where the arena would be constructed. The Vernon Public Art Gallery had also asked that borrowing for a new gallery also be on the ballot, but that won't occur. Cunningham says GVAC is currently exploring the future of cultural facilities and it would be premature to hold a referendum before those discussions are done. "It's a process that we're well down the road on," she said. Five polling stations have been identified for the Nov. 28 referendum in Vernon, Coldstream and the BX, while advance voting would take place Nov. 18 and 25.
Greater Vernon officials have left the bench and hit the ice in an attempt to garner voter support. It was announced Wednesday that a referendum will be held Nov. 28 to borrow $13.25 million to twin Kal Tire Place. "It's a compressed time scale," said David Sewell, Regional District of North Okanagan chief administrative officer. The Ministry of Community Development had been withholding approval of the referendum bylaw process, but final assent came Wednesday, paving the way for a referendum date to be set. The arena would be owned by RDNO and operated by the City of Vernon. Title would be transferred to the city in 20 years, bringing it in line with other local recreation facilities. Sewell is confident that all procedures for the referendum will be met. "We've been preparing for this and the City of Vernon is working on the communications side. We are prepared," he said. It is hoped that ice user groups will help make the public aware of the need to replace the aging Civic Arena as an ice sheet and expand Kal Tire Place to the north. "They are anxiously waiting and I am sure they are prepared to get the word out," said Juliette Cunningham, Greater Vernon Advisory Committee chairperson. However, there could be some challenges, including opposition from the Vernon Farmers Market, which uses the Kal Tire Parking lot where the arena would be constructed. The Vernon Public Art Gallery had also asked that borrowing for a new gallery also be on the ballot, but that won't occur. Cunningham says GVAC is currently exploring the future of cultural facilities and it would be premature to hold a referendum before those discussions are done. "It's a process that we're well down the road on," she said. Five polling stations have been identified for the Nov. 28 referendum in Vernon, Coldstream and the BX, while advance voting would take place Nov. 18 and 25.
Thursday, October 08, 2015
Joint referendum urged
107.5 KISSFM POLL: Results at 7:00 PM:
by Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star posted Oct 7, 2015 at 1:00 AM
Cultural advocates want to put a double-header before Greater Vernon residents. The Vernon Public Art Gallery will ask the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee Thursday to add a borrowing referendum for a new gallery on to an anticipated vote to twin Kal Tire Place. “By combining the vote for a second ice sheet at Kal Tire Place and a new facility for the VPAG, GVAC would be following the precedent set by the successful vote for Kal Tire Place and the Performing Arts Centre in 1999 when the economy was also in a downturn,” said Andrew Powell, VPAG president, in a letter. “In our view, it would be short sighted and irresponsible not to at least consider holding a joint referendum even if that consideration results in a further month or two of delay before a decision is made.” Powell suggests that having individual referendums could lead to voter fatigue and less support. GVAC’s chairperson isn’t speculating on what may be done with the art gallery’s request. “It will be discussed,” said Juliette Cunningham. Staff is recommending that the referendum request be added to the agenda of GVAC’s upcoming workshop on cultural facilities. “We will learn a lot from our facilities discussion,” said Cunningham. “We have to discuss what we are spending per capita (on culture) and how we compare to other communities.” While VPAG advocates a single referendum for multiple items, Cunningham believes combined construction dollars could scare voters off. “The risk is taxpayers are facing lots of demands.” It’s also not known when a referendum on a new ice sheet may occur because the provincial government has not signed off on the process yet. In his letter, Powell states that the region has outgrown the art gallery in the parkade. “We are limited by inadequate space to safely house, exhibit and provide programming for our expanding community,” he said. “The space is simply not up to the task and our region requires a class A space worthy of our vibrant and growing community. A new class A facility, built with cultural conservation and exhibition in mind, will increase the gallery’s revenues by opening doors to new funding streams such as Canada Council grants, acquisition grants and rental income from event space.” Powell added that class A galleries can issue tax receipts for donated artwork. “Just recently, the gallery lost the opportunity to add to the assets of the community’s permanent collection a Rita Letendre original work worth $75,000 because, as a class B facility, we were unable to issue the appropriate tax receipted for donated work. Rita Letendre is a prominent Canadian artist, an officer of the Order of Canada and a recipient of the Governor General’s Award. This loss is a tragedy and is an embarrassment to our community.”
Which project(s) would you support funding? A second ice sheet at Kal Tire Place A new Vernon Art Gallery
| Ice Sheet | |
|---|---|
| Art Gallery | |
| Both | |
| Neither |
by Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star posted Oct 7, 2015 at 1:00 AM
Cultural advocates want to put a double-header before Greater Vernon residents. The Vernon Public Art Gallery will ask the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee Thursday to add a borrowing referendum for a new gallery on to an anticipated vote to twin Kal Tire Place. “By combining the vote for a second ice sheet at Kal Tire Place and a new facility for the VPAG, GVAC would be following the precedent set by the successful vote for Kal Tire Place and the Performing Arts Centre in 1999 when the economy was also in a downturn,” said Andrew Powell, VPAG president, in a letter. “In our view, it would be short sighted and irresponsible not to at least consider holding a joint referendum even if that consideration results in a further month or two of delay before a decision is made.” Powell suggests that having individual referendums could lead to voter fatigue and less support. GVAC’s chairperson isn’t speculating on what may be done with the art gallery’s request. “It will be discussed,” said Juliette Cunningham. Staff is recommending that the referendum request be added to the agenda of GVAC’s upcoming workshop on cultural facilities. “We will learn a lot from our facilities discussion,” said Cunningham. “We have to discuss what we are spending per capita (on culture) and how we compare to other communities.” While VPAG advocates a single referendum for multiple items, Cunningham believes combined construction dollars could scare voters off. “The risk is taxpayers are facing lots of demands.” It’s also not known when a referendum on a new ice sheet may occur because the provincial government has not signed off on the process yet. In his letter, Powell states that the region has outgrown the art gallery in the parkade. “We are limited by inadequate space to safely house, exhibit and provide programming for our expanding community,” he said. “The space is simply not up to the task and our region requires a class A space worthy of our vibrant and growing community. A new class A facility, built with cultural conservation and exhibition in mind, will increase the gallery’s revenues by opening doors to new funding streams such as Canada Council grants, acquisition grants and rental income from event space.” Powell added that class A galleries can issue tax receipts for donated artwork. “Just recently, the gallery lost the opportunity to add to the assets of the community’s permanent collection a Rita Letendre original work worth $75,000 because, as a class B facility, we were unable to issue the appropriate tax receipted for donated work. Rita Letendre is a prominent Canadian artist, an officer of the Order of Canada and a recipient of the Governor General’s Award. This loss is a tragedy and is an embarrassment to our community.”
Friday, June 05, 2015
Cultural Group Guidelines
Posted on 6/5/2015 by Pete McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM
Local politicians are putting some general guidelines in place to help deal with cultural groups. Greater Vernon Advisory Committee director Doug Dirk says its part of developing the new ten year cultural plan. "Just moving to bring some order to everything that was existing because we have different agreements with different groups. Some involved societies, some didn't, some have an accountability through contracts and agreements and some didn't." BX-Silver Star director Mike Macnabb is concerned about providing facilities to cultural groups that meet certain criteria. "We don't want to have small interest groups to come forward and say we meet the criteria without having some obligation to bring to the table something more than just an interest." G-VAC chair Juliette Cunningham says they want to create a consistent process. "Currently its a bit one-off here and there and not treating each group equally and also trying to break it down into different categories and how you would, to what level you would support each group in the community." Under the new rules, the regional district will only fund independent registered societies, and only to groups that have an operating agreement or contract-for-services in place.
Local politicians are putting some general guidelines in place to help deal with cultural groups. Greater Vernon Advisory Committee director Doug Dirk says its part of developing the new ten year cultural plan. "Just moving to bring some order to everything that was existing because we have different agreements with different groups. Some involved societies, some didn't, some have an accountability through contracts and agreements and some didn't." BX-Silver Star director Mike Macnabb is concerned about providing facilities to cultural groups that meet certain criteria. "We don't want to have small interest groups to come forward and say we meet the criteria without having some obligation to bring to the table something more than just an interest." G-VAC chair Juliette Cunningham says they want to create a consistent process. "Currently its a bit one-off here and there and not treating each group equally and also trying to break it down into different categories and how you would, to what level you would support each group in the community." Under the new rules, the regional district will only fund independent registered societies, and only to groups that have an operating agreement or contract-for-services in place.
Saturday, May 09, 2015
Shipping containers, coffee cart could stay the summer downtown Vernon
May 09, 2015 - 2:34 PM By Charlotte Helston INFO-TEL Multimedia
VERNON - A pop-up shipping container art gallery and coffee vendor could stay the summer if they get permission from City Hall. That’s why the Vernon Public Art Gallery has asked the City of Vernon to extend its license agreement for the temporary steel shipping container structure at the bus loop downtown, across from Cenotaph Park. The art gallery was granted the space, normally used for parking, for use as additional gallery space for the international Okanagan Print Triennial exhibition. The show is set to close May 21, but instead of packing up the unique Big Steel Box structure, the gallery is hoping to keep offering exhibits there throughout the summer. “We have received multiple requests to consider leaving the structure onsite thorughout the summer months as people are liking the vibrancy created by having the art gallery present on this site,” gallery executive director Dauna Kennedy Grant said in a letter to the city. On-site vendor Ratio Coffee has set up outside the shipping containers over the two-month show, and has also expressed interest in staying the summer. There’s also an indication another mobile vendor is interested in using the site this summer.The request goes before Vernon city council Monday, May 11, and art gallery will also need permission from the North Okanagan Regional District. A staff report to council concluded: “The temporary gallery installation and coffee vendor are animating the space in a positive way and providing increased surveillance in the area.” If the request is granted, 23 parking permit holders who ordinarily use the space would be accommodated at the parkade, or another city parking lot.
VERNON - A pop-up shipping container art gallery and coffee vendor could stay the summer if they get permission from City Hall. That’s why the Vernon Public Art Gallery has asked the City of Vernon to extend its license agreement for the temporary steel shipping container structure at the bus loop downtown, across from Cenotaph Park. The art gallery was granted the space, normally used for parking, for use as additional gallery space for the international Okanagan Print Triennial exhibition. The show is set to close May 21, but instead of packing up the unique Big Steel Box structure, the gallery is hoping to keep offering exhibits there throughout the summer. “We have received multiple requests to consider leaving the structure onsite thorughout the summer months as people are liking the vibrancy created by having the art gallery present on this site,” gallery executive director Dauna Kennedy Grant said in a letter to the city. On-site vendor Ratio Coffee has set up outside the shipping containers over the two-month show, and has also expressed interest in staying the summer. There’s also an indication another mobile vendor is interested in using the site this summer.The request goes before Vernon city council Monday, May 11, and art gallery will also need permission from the North Okanagan Regional District. A staff report to council concluded: “The temporary gallery installation and coffee vendor are animating the space in a positive way and providing increased surveillance in the area.” If the request is granted, 23 parking permit holders who ordinarily use the space would be accommodated at the parkade, or another city parking lot.
Wednesday, April 08, 2015
Artwork attracts
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Apr 8, 2015 at 1:00 AM
An international art exhibition is drawing in the crowds.The Okanagan Print Triennial has proven popular with local residents and visitors since it opened March 19 at the Vernon Public Art Gallery and a satellite exhibit space across from Cenotaph Park.“The numbers are way up and we’re very excited,” said Dauna Kennedy Grant, VPAG executive director.“We are averaging about 100 people a day between the two locations. It’s more than anticipated.” The triennial features 90 works of art until May 21. Organizers originally considered 179 artists from 35 countries and 23 were ultimately selected to have their work on display. “People are curious about what’s happening and curious about the gallery,” said Kennedy Grant. “A lot of them are first time people to the gallery. They’re not just rushing through. They’re taking a solid look at the art.” Beyond the art itself, another topic continues to surface — the lack of a new, purpose-built public art gallery in Greater Vernon. “A lot of people are frustrated,” said Kennedy Grant. VPAG has been lobbying for a new facility for a number of years but the process has stalled at the political level. The satellite space consists of four storage containers sitting on the site selected for a new gallery. Kennedy Grant says the number of people making their way to that property indicates that a new facility must be in a high-profile area people can find. “Location is everything and being stuck in a parkade on a side street (current gallery) is not conducive to introducing people to art,” she said. The Okanagan Print Triennial is open at both locations Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tuesday, March 03, 2015
Art Gallery Poll
107.5 KISSFM POLL: Results as at 6:00 PM
 Do you think it's time Vernon and area had a proper art gallery that can handle the demand for major events like the Okanagan Print Triennial ? | ||
|---|---|---|
| no | ||
| 39- | 69.6% | |
| yes | ||
| 17- | 30.4% | |
| Number of Voters | : 56 |
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