About Us

The Varley Art Gallery of Markham is a vital cultural hub for artists and diverse communities. A municipal gallery, we create critical conversations about Canadian art and society. We inspire local and national audiences to engage with art through outstanding exhibitions and rich public and educational programs relevant to the communities we serve. We support artists from York region and seek to broaden access to the arts for diverse artists and cultural groups. We also share and celebrate the life and work of F.H. Varley, a founding member of the Group of Seven.

The Varley Art Gallery is situated on the traditional territories of Indigenous Peoples including the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe. We are committed to reconciliation, partnership and enhanced understanding.

Varley Art Gallery Programs include:

Rotating art exhibitions
Public events: lectures, talks, tours, workshops, complementing Varley exhibitions.
Art Camps in summer, winter and March Break
Art Classes for students from the age of four to senior citizen
Educational programs: field trips, activities and tours tied to the Ontario curriculum
Professional Development for Teachers
Publications that accompany Varley exhibitions
Organization and circulation of touring exhibitions
Private and corporate event rentals at the Varley Art Gallery; studio and exhibition rentals at the McKay Art Centre
A Volunteer Program operated by the Varley-McKay Art Foundation of Markham