As the sun sets above the picturesque Turtle Mountain Winery, patrons gather around a collection of beautiful artwork bathed in the midsummer eve’s orange glow.
Classic rock sounds from Vernon’s Feet First fill the air, combining with gourmet appetizers and local craft beer, wine, and spirits to create the revered ambience of the Vernon Public Art Gallery’s (VPAG) 31st annual Midsummer’s Eve of the Arts, July 19.
“Things are ramping up at the VPAG for Midsummer’s Eve of the Arts,” says Dauna Kennedy Grant, VPAG executive director. “We have received so many generous donations for this year’s auction, it’s shaping up to be a great evening.”
On auction at this year’s fundraiser is Rick Bond’s The Rail Trail, an acrylic 12x36 painting depicting the ongoing project.
“Always an auction favourite, Bond’s submission this year is sure to be popular as a way of recognizing the sginificant project that is taking place in our community with the development of the trail trail,” Kennedy Grant says. “I am looking forward to seeing who the lucky bidder is on this one.”
Also on auction this year is a soothing skyscape from mother-daughter duo Heidi and Carmen Thompson.
“It’s really special to see that it’s going through generations,” Kennedy Grant says.
With gourmet appetizers by Cracked Pepper Catering, The Fig Catering, Italian Kitchen, and Wings Bar and Grill, craft brew offerings of Okanagan Spring Brewery, wine from Gray Monk Estate Winery, and cocktails from Okanagan Spirits, Midsummer’s Eve of the Arts has something to offer everyone, even those who aren’t necessarily art enthusiasts.
“We have lots of fun things to help create memories for people,” Kennedy Grant says. “Not only is it the love of art, it creates a magical evening.”
VPAG marketing and programming coordinator Laura Ashton agrees.
“It’s really for everybody,” Ashton says.
The auction brings in Don and Peter Raffan of Valley Auction and the Raffan Brothers. Live music will be playing until 11 p.m., with dancing after the auction.
The Vernon Public Art Gallery presents the 31st annual Midsummer’s Eve of the Arts July 19 from 6:30 - 11 p.m at Turtle Mountain Winery. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.vernonpublicartgallery.com. Tickets are available for $60 online, at the gallery (3228-31st St.) or at 250-545-3173. Parking and shuttle services are available from Kal Tire Place.