2017–18 | Winter Issue
Gallery Information
Free admission to Gallery Spaces Hours Monday | Closed Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday | 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Thursday | 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday | 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Gallery spaces will be closed between January 8 –19, 2018 for the installation of our winter exhibitions.
Contact Information varley@markham.ca 905.477.7000 x3261 VarleyGallery varleygallery.ca Photography Credit: Louis Li Photography Cover image: Zev Farber, Machine Fantasies (Prototype of a device for the interpretation and broadcast of interstitial sound), 2017, plexiglass, re-engineered Telefunken opus hifi 7050 stereo, receiver, custom software, lights and electronics, generative FM radio transmission, 101.6 x 63.5 x 38.1 cm.
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Varley Art Gallery of Markham
Director’s Letter As 2017 draws to a close, I am proud to look back over the year – for what a fantastic twentieth anniversary it has been! Everything we set out to do has been accomplished. The year began with a superb donation of 22 works by members of the Group of Seven, generously gifted by Mr. Jack MacQuarrie. This was a tremendous affirmation of community support. Varley exhibitions and public programming continued to raise the bar with Gallery Gabs, Art Socials, Lunch & Learns, not to mention three iterations of the hugely successful PechaKucha (PK) Markham. We continued our active participation in community celebrations across the City, which include: Unionville Festival; Markham-Milliken Children’s Festival, Taste of Asia, Jazz Festival and the City’s own Markham Expo 150. In 2017 we also laid the groundwork for several projects that will bear significant fruit in 2018: upgrades to the gallery courtyard, a catalogue of works by Varley in our permanent collections, and, most exciting, a whole new rebranding project. A sneak peek of our new visual identity was revealed at the October 12 Rouge: Varley Gala organized by the Varley-McKay Art Foundation of Markham. I would like to thank the Foundation for their splendid work, along with all those who attended that fabulous evening. But the year is not yet over! PK Markham Vol.17 takes place at the Varley on November 24, while December 14 will see our annual Very Varley Open House. Join us for a fun informal party to cap our twentieth anniversary celebrations and kick off the holiday season!
Niamh O’Laoghaire, Director
Gallery Staff Niamh O’Laoghaire, Director Anik Glaude, Curator Rachel Brodie, Collections Charlene Lo, Marketing Francesca Pang, Education Cheryl Rego, Programs Doriana Cabeceiras, Administration Francesca Dauphinais, Development
Board of Directors of the Varley-McKay Art Foundation of Markham Terrence Pochmurski (Chair), Craig McOuat (Vice-Chair), Amin Giga (Secretary), Sid Karsh (Treasurer), Regional Councillor Nirmala Armstrong, Howard Back, John Ingram, Sammy Lee, Phoebe Lo, Santo Natale, Beverly Schaeffer, Edie Yeomans
2017–18 | Winter Issue
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Exhibitions
Present | Perfect | Continuous Featuring works by Zev Farber On view until January 7, 2018 To celebrate our 20th anniversary, a year-long rotation of our most popular works by F.H. Varley will be on view in the Collections Gallery. In addition, selected interventions by contemporary artists will bring new insights to the study of F.H. Varley’s work from our collection. This fall, Zev Farber presents Machine Fantasies/Human Events, a project that examines the intersection of art, technology and family memory. Comprised of sound, drawing and sculptural elements, this new site-specific work explores ideas of emission/transmission/reception as a way of collapsing varied moments and narratives from the last half-century. See page 8 and 9 for exhibition-related programming. Above: Artist Zev Farber with his artwork: Machine Fantasies (Prototype of a device for the interpretation and broadcast of interstitial sound), 2017, plexiglass, re-engineered Telefunken opus hifi 7050 stereo, receiver, custom software, lights and electronics, generative FM radio transmission, 101.6 x 63.5 x 38.1 cm.
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Varley Art Gallery of Markham
Xiaojing Yan Out from among the tranquil woods On view until January 7, 2018 Markham-based Xiaojing Yan is known for her intricate sculptural installations that explore the intersections of the natural and cultural worlds. Her work is at once simple and complex; concrete and abstract; personal and universal. The material qualities of her work, significant on both aesthetic and conceptual levels, are at the core of her practice. She transforms lingzhi mushrooms, star anise, freshwater pearls and cicadae, among others, to explore traditional Chinese mythology and folklore. Ultimately, Yan revisits her own identity as a first generation Canadian, while offering contemporary perspectives on issues of mortality, belonging and contemplation. Below: Xiaojing Yan, Far from where you divined, 2017, lingzhi mushrroms, wood chips, and wood, dimensions variable.
2017–18 | Winter Issue
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Art Programs
Life Drawing Drop-in Thursdays | Oct. 19 – Nov. 23 | 7:00 – 9:30 p.m. | 18+ | Starts at $15/session Join us for Life Drawing sessions in our studio! These sessions offer artists the opportunity to practice nude drawing while building a social and artistic network by meeting and working amongst their peers. Visit our website for the year-round schedule and details.
Winter Programs and Winter Break Camps The Varley is pleased to introduce new winter programs for children, teens, and adults as well as winter break camps for children. Registration starts November 14.
Did you know? Members get 10% off programs and camps. See Memberships on page 14 for details.
Discover more varley@markham.ca 905.477.7000 x3261
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Varley Art Gallery of Markham
Check these out! Winter Break Kinder Camps (4–6 yrs) Dec. 27 – Jan. 5 | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. | $56/day Winter Break Junior Camps (7–12 yrs) Dec. 27 – Jan. 5 | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. | $56/day March Break Kinder Camps (4–6 yrs) Mar. 12 – Mar. 16 | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. | $56/day March Break Junior Camps (7–12 yrs) Mar. 12 – Mar. 16 | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. | $56/day
Three ways to register 1. Visit econnect.markham.ca 2. Call 905.475.4867 for FAST TRACK 3. Fill out a registration form at any major community centre and fax to 905.479.7767
Education
Winter Education Programs
PA Day Extravaganzas
Join us this fall to explore mythology, nature, and sound through guided tours and hands-on studio workshops. Beginning Spring 2018, explore history, literacy, and social justice through both viewing and creating art. Students will engage in discussion and produce art inspired by how they can contribute positive change to their community through even the smallest of actions. All programs offer direct links to the Ontario Curriculum.
Spend your PA Day at the Varley! Through interactive tours and art activities, students are inspired by artists currently on view in our Galleries. Before Care (8 – 9 a.m.) and After Care (4 – 6 p.m.) included.
Curriculum Links •
Visual Art
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Language Arts
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Science & Technology
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Social Studies
•
Inuit Studies
Book your school trip today!
Register Now! Nov. 24 | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. | 308693 | $56 Jan. 19 | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. | 307286 | $56 Feb. 2 | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. | 307287 | $56
Education E-Newsletter for Teachers Receive early updates about the Varley’s upcoming seasonal school programs and valuable PD opportunities through our newest resource for educators. Visit the Education section of varleygallery.ca to subscribe! Learn more Francesca Pang fpang@markham.ca 905.477.7000 x3274
2017–18 | Winter Issue
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Events
Public Events Lunch & Learns Nov. 22 & Jan. 17 | 12:30 – 1:30p.m. | $5
Bring your lunch to informal discussions led by our staff and art specialists. Free to all Varley Members and, by special arrangement, members of the Markham Group of Artists.
PechaKucha Night Markham: Vol. 17 Nov. 24 | 7:30 p.m. | Pay What You Want
Connect with Markham’s creative communities! Presenters share their ideas in 20 slides x 20 seconds each. Tickets available November 1 at pkmarkham. eventbrite.ca.
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Varley Art Gallery of Markham
Very Varley Open House Dec. 14 | 4 – 6 p.m. | Free
The Varley Art Gallery and Varley-McKay Foundation of Markham bring you the third annual Very Varley Open House! Celebrate the season with your friends at the Gallery! We’ll have light refreshments, holiday music and cheer for everyone to enjoy. RSVP at veryvarleyoh.eventbrite.ca.
Family Activities Family Day Canvas Challenge Feb. 19 | $35/ family of 4 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. & 2 – 4 p.m. $5 for each additional person
Guided by an art educator, families will team up to experiment with a variety of materials to create their own mixed media canvases. Materials are generously sponsored by Above Ground Art Supplies.
Varley Member Exclusives Director’s Circle Nov. 17 | 7:30 p.m.
An exclusive reception for our members and friends, including access to our current exhibitions, highlights of recent acquisitions and a preview of our plans for 2018.
Double-Discount Holiday Shopping Weekend Nov. 18 – 19
Enjoy a full weekend of savings with a 30% discount on Group of Seven merchandise, art books, children’s creative kits and much more from the Varley Gift Shop!
Varley-McKay Art Foundation of Markham Events Thank you to our incredible supporters who joined us on Thursday, October 12, 2017, at Crystal Fountain Event Venue for Rouge: Varley Gala as we celebrated the Varley Art Gallery’s 20th anniversary, Canada 150 and commemorated the 100th anniversary of Tom Thomson’s passing. A special thanks to our MC, Suhana Meharchand of the CBC, Honorary Patrons Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti and Remington’s President of Land Development and Investment Christopher Bratty, and to our sponsors for making the event possible. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events in the new year!
Vintages at the Varley Mar. 21 | 6:30 p.m. | 19+ | ID Required Stay tuned for more information!
Event info varley@markham.ca varleygallery.ca
2017–18 | Winter Issue
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Venue Rentals Varley Art Gallery of Markham Florence and Donald Deacon Room | Capacity: 146 persons (standing) This 1,000-square-foot rental space offers cathedral ceilings and large windows that look onto historic Main Street Unionville. Private Rate
Community Rate*
Up to three hours during the day
$317
$222
Up to six hours during the day
$633
$443
Hourly rate after closing
$174
$122
Rental rates are based on regular hours of operation.
Lobby | Capacity: 150 persons (standing) & 100 persons (seated) Perfect for piano recitals and corporate events, our lobby provides a versatile space with bright lighting and an elevated platform for use as a stage. After hours only. Booking with Deacon Room
$102 flat rate
Booking without Deacon Room
$102/hour
Additional Fees Set-up/Clean-up
$62
After hours staff
$61/hour*
SOCAN Music & Liability Insurance
Varies
Piano
$82
Wedding Rehearsal
$82 (up to 2 hours)
*Community service groups, non-profit agencies and organizations receive a 30% discount. Prices do not include tax. Photo: Jennifer Xu
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Varley Art Gallery of Markham
McKay Art Centre – Book for 2018! Artists and artist groups can rent spaces in this beautiful Victorian-era home. Host your own exhibition or book a private studio space to work on your art.
Exhibition Space | Five-day rental Rent the main floor of the McKay Art Centre. It’s great for individual artists and artist groups interested in exhibiting and selling their works. Rate per 2-week rental April & November
$444
May, June, September & October
$486
Prices do not include tax.
Studio Space Artists can rent the main level and store their work and materials. Studio rental months are January, February, March and December. Artists may rent the upstairs studio all year round! Rate per 2-week rental Small Studio (12x12 ft) – up to 2 artists
$200
Large Studio (13 x 24 ft + conservatory) – up to 6 artists
$400
Upstairs Studio (14 x 13 ft, plus ensuite washroom)
$300
Prices do not include tax.
For Information Doriana Cabeceiras dcabeceiras@markham.ca 905.477.7000 x3263
2017–18 | Winter Issue
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Volunteer Join Our Team Our volunteers are an important part of the Gallery and are involved in all that we do! Create your profile at markham.ca/volunteering. Volunteers aged 14+ are welcome.
Gallery Attendants By welcoming visitors upon entry to the exhibitions and providing basic information about the art on view, gallery attendants enhance the public’s experience. Attendants also supervise the spaces during operating hours to ensure the safety of the artworks.
Program Assistants Work under the direction of our instructors to support art class participants and help create an exceptional learning experience. Great opportunity for students looking to complete their community service hours in a fun and creative environment!
French Speaking Program Assistants & Docents Students learn the importance of art and language through French education programs at the Varley. We are always looking for volunteers who are able to speak French fluently to enrich our art programs and gallery tours. Apply today Francesca Dauphinais fdauphinais@markham.ca 905.477.7000 x3264
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Varley Art Gallery of Markham
Sponsorship Opportunities
Help Us Grow Markham’s Creative Community Sponsorship opportunities range from $1,000 for a single event to $20,000 for major projects and exhibitions. They can be tailored to meet your organization’s needs. Join a select group of sponsors who enable exhibitions and arts programming for the whole community to enjoy.
Presenting $20,000
Exhibition $10,000
Media $5,000
Events $1,000 to $5,000
We have established successful partnerships with businesses, corporations, foundations and individuals. Contact the Varley to discuss your sponsorship interests. Support the community Niamh O’Laoghaire, Director nolaoghaire@markham.ca 905.477.7000 x3273
2017–18 | Winter Issue
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Membership Membership Levels | Visit varleygallery.ca for more information.
Prices do not include tax.
Artist $39 Student $29 (Valid full-time student ID required)
Individual Family
$48 $72
(2 adults & up to 4 children)
Membership Benefits Student
Individual
Artist
Family
15% discount on most items and Members’ Double Discount Holiday Weekend in our Gift Shop
Discounts on art programming
Invitations to exhibition openings & special events
Reciprocal admission to 70+ galleries as part of the Ontario Association of Art Galleries
10% off at all Curry’s Artists’ Materials Store Locations
Non-residents receive same program registration date as residents
Free admission to Lunch & Learns
10% discount on select programs at Flato Markham Theatre and Markham Museum
Free admission to Markham Museum and select events
Join today Doriana Cabeceiras 905.477.7000 x3263
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Varley Art Gallery of Markham
F.H. Varley, Mist and Mountains, Lynn Valley (detail), c.1935, oil on canvas, 39.7 x 50.6 cm. Collection of the Varley Art Gallery of Markham. Gift of Peter Garstang, 1999.1.1
Membership Form Thank you for becoming a member of the Varley Art Gallery! Your membership card will be mailed to you within 2 – 4 weeks. Please make cheques payable to the “City of Markham.” Artist $44.07 Individual $54.24 Family $81.36 Student $32.77 I would also like to make a donation to the Varley Art Gallery of Markham $ Total amount enclosed $ Name Address City Postal Code Phone Email
Yes! I would like to subscribe and give consent to receive information from the Varley Art Gallery of Markham. I may unsubscribe at any time.
Please attach this form to your payment and submit to the Varley in person or by mail.
Contact information: Doriana Cabeceiras dcabeceiras@markham.ca 905.477.7000 x3263
Mail to: Varley Art Gallery of Markham 216 Main Street Unionville Markham, ON L3R 2H1
The Varley Art Gallery of Markham gratefully acknowledges the support of our sponsors and funders. Family Day Canvas Challenge Sponsor
Memberships Supporter
216 Main Street Unionville Markham ON, L3R 2H1 905.477.7000 x3261 varley@markham.ca VarleyGallery varleygallery.ca