Artists set to riot on Vernon Parkade

VERNON – Artists, singers, and poets will be taking over the Vernon Parkade this month for the fifth annual Riot on the Roof.

Youth ambassador Robert Schley says the August 24 event will fill a gap in the Okanagan for young people wanting to experience art.

"The Okanagan has some incredible art, but there isn't a lot that's geared to or marketed at youth and young adults," Schley says. "Personally, I enjoy all kinds of art forms, but have never known where to see them."

Riot on the Roof offers an answer. For one evening, artists of all mediums take to the upper floors of the Vernon Parkade, offering the public a one-stop-shop of culture, art and music. The top floor will feature bands and a dance performance, while the next level down will host visual artists, spoken word poets and a film lounge.

"I've never seen this all in one place anywhere," Schley says. "There's something for everyone."

Not only is the event an opportunity for young people to enjoy art, it's a chance for young artists themselves to find an audience.

"It's great exposure for them," Schley says.

It's a special atmosphere where the public can meet and talk to the artists themselves, while also participating in interactive activities, like a chalk drawing competition. There are lots of prizes to be won, including gift certificates to a variety of local Vernon businesses.

Schley says attendance in past years has been about 600 people, but he hopes to see more than that this year.

"It's a riotous good time. The kind where everyone is having a ball," Schley says.

Volunteers are always needed for things like set-up and take-down, and those interested can contact Schley at ambassador@vernonpublicartgallery.com or  (250)545-3173 for more information.

To contact the reporter for this story, email Charlotte Helston at chelston@infotelnews.ca, call (250)309-5230 or tweet @charhelston.