Artists and patrons of the arts are about to paint the town red, and a few other colours, at the 24th annual Midsummer’s Eve of the Arts.
The Vernon Public Art Gallery’s main fundraiser of the year takes place at the Caetani Cultural Centre gardens July 21, and once again features local fare –– food, beverages, and of course, art –– to suit everyone’s palette and palate.
This year the gallery is giving away a bit extra for those who like a splash of paint with their paintings in the aptly titled Art and Design raffle.
The winner will not only receive an original 36-by-36-inch original acrylic on canvas donated by local artist Barry Rafuse, entitled March of Spring, but will also receive a free consultation with interior designer Tammi Berzins of Berzins Designs as well as two gallons of Super II acrylic paint from Cloverdale Paint and a Rona gift certificate.
“We are adding some extras for the winner to spice up their room for the painting,” said Midsummer’s committee member Terry Price.
Also new are second and third-place prizes.
The second-place winner will be able to choose a piece of art from the VPAG’s art rental collection and keep it for six months, while third prize is a copper urn donated by Case Furniture Gallery.
Only 500 raffle tickets will be made available at $10 each, and they are now on sale at the VPAG, and will also be available at the Midsummer’s gala.
Although profits were down in general at last year’s event, organizers are expecting a good turn out this year, with people opening their wallets more to purchase a one-of-a-kind piece.
“The economy has turned around, so people have more disposable income for paintings and to support the gallery,” said former gallery board president and Midsummer’s committee member Avis Janz.
“We have been well supported by the arts community, as we can’t have an auction if the artists don’t donate their wares. also our volunteers put in many hours to set up and take down for the event. everything has to be brought to the site.”
The annual event once again features the Raffan Brothers of Valley Auction in Spallumcheen running the live auction, where paintings, sculptures and more will go on the block.
“Our experience packages, especially the dinners, have been very popular,” added Janz.
For those a little intimidated about raising a paddle, there is always the silent auction, which offers up an array of art.
“The pieces we choose for the silent auction are generally decided by size. You can view the smaller items, like a pendant, more easily in the silent auction,” said Janz.
As much as Midsummer’s is about art, there’s also the ever popular edibles and libation.
“We have some new restaurants and our standbys. in general, we have a lot of enthusiasm from return bakeries, restaurants, and coffee shops,” said Janz.
As many of the businesses close up shop by the time the live auction starts, this year a cash bar will be available starting at 8 p.m., added Price.
Tickets for this year’s Midsummer’s Eve of the Arts are $60 and are available now at the VPAG, located at 3228 31st Ave., Vernon. Gallery hours are Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays, 11a.m. to 4 p.m.