Now Accepting Applications for 2025 – Apply HERE by May 31st!

The Youth Artist in Residence (YAR) offers aspiring artists ages 16-18 (in the North Okanagan) the opportunity to spend the summer creating at the Vernon Community Arts Centre. Each year, The Vernon Community Arts Centre awards one to three students a residency.

Selected Youth Artists in Residence are Provided with:

• Dedicated studio space
• Access to artist and administrative support
• Facilities and equipment during open hours
• One-year membership
• An honorarium to purchase materials and supplies (provided by OAC)
• The opportunity to showcase their completed work in an exhibit at the VCAC Centre Gallery

YAR 2025 will run from July 2 – August 22.

The VCAC thanks our partners, the Okanagan Artists of Canada Society (OAC), for their generous donations towards this program, gifting each residence with a $250 honorarium to purchase much-needed supplies. 2024 marked the 10th year of OACS supporting the YAR program.

Hear from Past YAR Participants…

“My time at the Vernon Community Arts Centre allowed me to explore and develop my artistic voice. It is a community that gave me indispensable feedback I needed not only for my creative choices, but my professional choices moving forward as an artist. The space and funds provided allowed me to practice a professional schedule and explore the tools, techniques and creative processes I use even now. I love the Vernon Community Arts Centre!” ~ Joshua Wallace, VCAC’s first Youth Artist in Residence

“Being a YAR allowed me access to so many opportunities to experiment and meet fellow artists from all walks of life. There’s a major sense of community there in the Centre that just can’t be beat.” ~David Barnes

“My time as a Youth Artist in Residence was extremely important to my growth as a creative. The talented team of employees, volunteers, and fellow youth artists were all so supportive and knowledgeable. No matter your skill level, style, or goal for the future, this residency will bring you new skills and friendships. I would do it again in a heartbeat.” ~ Clee Alice