Reusable menstrual pads offer a sustainable alternative to costly disposable products and provide an excellent project for practicing sewing. This workshop features a guided tour of the Varley’s current exhibitions, focusing on the history and functions of fabrics to inspire participants. Following the tour, participants will create a reusable menstrual pad from scratch. In partnership with […]
In this artist talk, Kurdish-Canadian artist Roda Medhat explores the intersection of scale, light, and cultural identity within his body of work. Medhat will delve into how he uses large-scale installations and light based works to create immersive experiences that provoke conversations around cultural preservation, identity, and placehood. By examining key projects, neon rugs to […]
In this virtual artist talk, Par Nair will discuss her interdisciplinary art practice, which encompasses oil painting, hand embroidery, installation, and writing. Nair will share how her work seeks to collaborate with the women who came before her, while unraveling the cultural, historical, and personal narratives embedded in South Indian textiles and familial archives. Learn […]
Join the Kirtan Culture Initiative for an evening of interactive musical mantra meditation (kirtan). Kirtan is a call-and-response form of meditation, utilizing ancient eastern mantras, traditional instruments, and the human voice. Participants will explore their sacred heart space through the power of sound, music, and mantras. The practice of kirtan can tap into deep states of […]
Join local arts educator and poet Sheniz Janmohamed for a gentle writing and creation workshop inspired by our current exhibitions. Participants will tour the gallery, embark on a gentle nature walk to observe the changing seasons and their reflections within us, and respond to creative prompts through writing and sketching. Chai will be served. Learn […]
Drop-in for a self-guided sewing activity inspired by our 2024 Fall Exhibitions. Explore textiles, patterns, and more, before practicing your hand stitching by crafting your own plushy. All supplies are provided. Whether you’re a seasoned stitcher or new to sewing, you’ll have a blast making your own soft and cuddly creations. No experience is needed—bring your imagination and have fun! Learn More
Join exhibiting artist Meera Sethi for a free workshop exploring her research-based project Unskilled, along with a participatory demo of Wash ‘n Care labels designed by Sethi. Gain a deeper understanding of garment care that goes beyond washing, drying, and ironing, exploring topics like environmental responsibility, workers’ rights, and emotional connections to clothing. Each attendee […]
Join us for the launch of Meera Sethi: A Brief History of Wear and Tracing Patterns. The afternoon will be filled with music, delicious food, a drag performance, and a special gallery tour led by exhibiting artist Meera Sethi. Take part in a hands-on sewing workshop perfect for all ages. Learn More
In this virtual Lunch and Learn session, To go boldly exhibiting artist Sonny Assu will explore the ways his love of Star Trek has influenced his artistic practice over the past several years. He will share insights into how the iconic series has shaped his creative journey and inspired his distinctive body of work. Learn More
Join Yan Wu, the City of Markham’s Public Art Curator, for a guided tour in Mandarin at the Varley. She will walk through To go boldly and Summer Solstice, exploring how the ideas of science fiction in art gallery, popular culture, fandom, and solar phenomena are contemplated and illustrated in contemporary artworks and the gallery’s collection. Learn […]
