Cul-de-sac
June 26 - August 28, 2011

Cul-de-sac invites us to question the notion of suburbia as a geographic, architectural and fictional space in relation to the communities that embody them. The term ‘cul-de-sac’ commonly refers to a dead-end street and has become a symbol of suburban planning. From its onset, suburbia promised development and progress and has been presented as the solution to a balanced life of mobility, work, family and leisure. However, with the ever-rising concerns of urban sprawl and the expansion of new suburban developments, the housing crisis, oil wars and global warming, their very existence is questioned.

Featuring works by Jordi Colomer, Brette Gabel & Robin Lambert, Isabelle Hayeur, Laurie Kang, Kelly Mark, and Alex Morrison.

Guest curated by Maria Coates, Karie Liao, and Fiona Wright from York University's Art History program.

This exhibition is a mentoring partnership with the Art History Graduate Students Association of York University. A catalogue will accompany this exhibition.

Calling all Markham residents – Show us your Unionville!

In the context of our upcoming exhibition Cul-de-sac, artists Brette Gabel and Robin Lambert invite you to participate in a one-of-a-kind interactive art project to be displayed at the Varley Art Gallery this summer. During the weekend of 24 June, 25 and 26, Brette and Robin will invite volunteers out for breakfast to get to know the town of Markham through members of its community. The project will involve a complimentary breakfast and a chat about your town and surrounding areas. After breakfast, it is up to the participant to send the artist on an ‘adventure’ for the day. If you had to choose your favourite corner of Markham, what would it be? How would you choose to represent your city? Where would you bring out of town guests who have never been to the area? Is it your favorite park bench, a funky shop, or a trip on local transit? The artist will travel to your destination of choice and document their journey through pod-casts and poster project. You are welcome to join them for the adventure or let them explore the area on their own.

Called Show Us Your Unionville! to highlight the historical location of the gallery, residents from the entire Markham community are welcome to take part. The artists have three days and the slots will fill up fast! If you are interested in participating, email the artists directly at showusyourcity@gmail.com to introduce yourself.

Upcoming Public Programmes

Join us for the exhibition opening and block party for Cul-de-sac

Sunday 26 June 2011 from 2 to 4 p.m. (rain or shine)

Courtyard of the Varley Art Gallery, Unionville

Come on down to the Varley’s Cul-de-sac exhibition opening Block Party with treats, performances and activities for everyone! If you have change in your pocket, it’ll get you hotdogs and lemonade for the entire family. Meet the guest curators of the suburban-themed exhibition, Maria Coates, Karie Liao and Fiona Wright, Masters students in Art History at York University. Blow some giant bubbles and learn the latest techniques in sidewalk art. Don’t miss this great kick-off to summer event!

Guest Curators’ tour

Sunday 10 July at 1 p.m.

Come for a tour of the exhibition Cul-de-sac, with guest curators from the Masters program in Art History at York University – taking place during Celtic Fest in Unionville..

Artist Talk & Family Workshop

Monday 1 August from 12 to 4 p.m.

Originally from Markham and visiting from Berlin, artist Laurie Kang will run a series of family art activities as part of Simcoe Day celebrations. Join Laurie at 2 p.m. as she discusses her photographic works in the exhibition.

Doors Open Markham

Guest Curator Tour

Sunday 27 August at 1 p.m.

As the Varley is an official venue at this year’s annual Doors Open Markham event, join us for a special behind-closed-doors guest curator tour of Cul-de-sac.

Home Depot Family Workshop

Sunday 27 August, 12 to 3 p.m. (rain or shine)

Bring the brood to a Home Depot Kids Workshop at the Varley! This special program teaches children how to build small projects, do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instil a sense of accomplishment. Drop in and build a DIY project with the help of Markham Home Depot staff members.

Public Gallery Talks

Every Sunday at 2 p.m.

Cost included with admission fee

*Call to book your own private group exhibition tours.

The Varley Art Gallery of Markham is supported by the Varley-McKay Art Foundation of Markham, Town of Markham, Ontario Arts Council, Department of Canadian Heritage, memberships, and private donations.