Vernon Public Art Gallery
Summer Art Students Create a Riot

Where: Vernon Public Art Gallery, 3228 31st Ave. Vernon BC, V1T 2H3, 250-545-3173
When: Summer, 2013
Why: Organizers for Summer Arts Events for Youth Including Riot on the Roof
Who: Vernon Public Art Gallery

The Vernon Public Art Gallery is thrilled to have received funding for two summer students this year, the first time in the five year history in which university students have helped organize the annual alternative arts event, Riot on the Roof.

Amongst recruiting artists, designers, bands, poets, and performers for the big event atop the Vernon Parkade on August 24th, Robert Schley and Jamie Friesen will learn about the operations and objectives of a public art gallery and VPAG events, in just three short months. Riot on the Roof is geared toward a younger demographic (16 – 24 years), in a way that generates interest in the arts in a slightly less than conventional method. Robert and Jamie will learn how to organize a community arts event, recruit artists, build sponsorship opportunities, event promotion, expand community partnerships, and continue to provide accessible and affordable art to everyone. And of course, the Gallery ambassadors will introduce new features in the 2013 line up, such as improv and contemporary dance.

“I am really excited at the opportunity to organize Riot, and to help grow and promote the arts and culture community in Vernon. The Okanagan is filled with so much young, creative talent and this year Riot aims to show the community what alternative art looks like, how inspiring it can be, and how you can participate yourself.” said Jamie Friesen, 2013 Youth Ambassador.

Jamie is a lifelong resident of the Okanagan and is currently studying Cultural Studies and Political Science at UBCO. She is also interested in Food Truck culture in the Okanagan and is on a quest to find the best local taco. Two very valuable assets to organizing Riot on the Roof.

Robert was born and raised in Vernon and has recently completed his first year in the Television and Film Production Program at BCIT. He is also the proud owner of a 21 year old fish, just one year older than he is – another very valuable attribute to implementing an event featuring dozens of artists performing to over 400 people.

All kidding aside, the 2013 VPAG Youth Ambassadors bring great energy and enthusiasm to the Gallery for the summer months and all the staff look forward to the 5th annual Riot on the Roof as a great way to wrap up the summer.

“I’m very excited to bring different forms of art to the Okanagan’s young community. I love art in all its forms and can’t wait to share that with others. I think the event is going be a blast and I’m thrilled to be involved in making this the most fun and entertaining Riot yet.“ said Robert Schley, 2013 Youth Ambassador.

For more information about the Vernon Public Art Gallery contact:
250-545-3173
@VernonAGallery
info@vernonpublicartgallery.com
www.vernonpublicartgallery.com