Chill Out at the Parka Patio

Latitude 53's rooftop patio is great for a party. It's spacious, offers a beautiful view of the city and gets transformed into an art saloon every hot Thursday during the Summer Rooftop Patio Series. But in the winter, it gets ignored.

But on February 18th, the patio will host the contemporary art gallery's first ever Parka Patio party.

Executive director Todd Janes knows people may think having a party outside in minus -20°C weather is a little crazy, but he thinks it's time to embrace the realities of the city's climate and have some fun with it.

The party is "taking the idea of loving winter and mixing it with truly Latitude flair," he says.

The patio will soon be transformed with a screen for video projections, trees and other decor by Elemental Interiors.

The evening includes two DJs —  one indoor, one outdoor — warm spiced wine, cold beers, food from elm café, the Upper Crust and the Bothy and, of course, visual art.

The gallery commissioned four artists to create various enviroments like an igloo and a winter tunnel.

Over 40 local artists have also donated winter-themed artwork to be auctioned during the party, with proceeds going to the gallery's programming.

Here is a sneak peek of some items that will be included in the silent auction. 

Andrea Foht, "Parka Party"

Joel Kadziolka "Gregory - A Papercut Monster"

Karen Cassidy, "Venus of Sturgeon Valley"

Justin Wayne Shaw, "The North"

Sergio Serrano, "Candata Friga" 

Parka Patio, February 18, 10248 106 St., 780-423-5353. Click to purchase tickets