The Varley Art Gallery’s founding art collection began with Kathleen McKay’s donation of 67 works, including many of F.H. Varley’s works. Beyond the 67 original works, the Foundation has supported the acquisition of several other pieces including contemporary works, and the Gallery’s holding currently stands at 1,500 works of art.

With a vast collection of artworks, the Varley-McKay Art Foundation of Markham provides the financial support to assist the Varley Art Gallery in the preservation, conservation and proper storage of their collection for future generations to study and enjoy.

The Varley-McKay Art Foundation of Markham works with the Varley Art Gallery to make art more accessible to school groups as well as the general public. Our docent program supports the Varley Art Gallery’s education team, providing group tours to education groups visiting the gallery. We also provide the financial means to sustain the Gallery’s Lunch and Learn program to further artistic and curatorial discussion. We also employ Gallery Animateurs to introduce visitors to the Gallery’s exhibitions and programs, initiate discussions on the exhibitions and to assist with overseeing and caring for the exhibition galleries during the busy summer months. 

Through our support, Varley Art Gallery of Markham employees are able to participate in seminars, conferences, and other learning opportunities to engage and exchange with other institutions.