For the past eight years, one of Vernon’s biggest summer parties has been taking place above downtown.
The Vernon Public Art Gallery’s annual Riot on the Roof is an all-ages night of alternative art that happens above the gallery – on all three levels of the Vernon parkade.
With more than 700 attendees at last year’s Riot, this year’s event, Aug. 20, continues to grow and evolve.
“Eight years ago, the gallery saw a space that needed to be filled in our community. The goal was to provide affordable, safe access to arts and cultural experiences for youth. Riot on the Roof was born of this inquiry,” said VPAG executive director Dauna Kennedy Grant.
“The unique nature of the venue creates an irreplaceable cultural experience. Entering the parkade is immersive. Music, dancing, fashion, video, art installation, painting, performance, and poetry consume your senses.”
The event relies each year on the creativity of young, emerging artists, as well as support from local businesses.
“The generosity of this year’s title sponsor A&W makes it possible for the VPAG to host this fabulous event once again this year. We are also grateful to David’s Tea, Wentworth Music, and Roko Service Ltd. for their support.” said Kennedy Grant.
This year, local band //AMISTAD//, musician Windmills, and visual artist Lucas Glenn are just some of the participants who will showcase their individual talents.
“We are so pleased with the exceptional work being done by our youth ambassadors this year to make Riot on the Roof a diverse showcase of emerging young artists working from various platforms and cultural backgrounds,” said Kennedy Grant. “This year promises to be one of our best yet and we look forward to filling the parkade with people enjoying all there is to offer.”
Riot on the Roof happens Saturday, Aug. 20 from 7 to 11 p.m. Tickets are $10 and available at the VPAG, 3228 31st Ave., online at vernonpublicartgallery.com or by calling 250-545-3173.
All proceeds go back into the community through continual, accessible programming, education, and experiences offered by the gallery.