We collaborate with a community of international art world influencers to deliver a collection of expertly curated contemporary art from Africa, Middle East, Asia and Latin America.

 
Matter represents a roster of artists from different countries with unique visual expressions.  They are at different stages of their careers, perceptibly walking the line between what is new and undiscovered, and what is established.  They work in a variety of mediums including photography, tapestry, and painting.  What they have in common is the high caliber of their work, well deserved accolades and long-term creative potential. 

At just over 1300 square feet, Matter is a modern space with polished concrete floors, white walls and a unique garage-style door that opens to the outside. The multi-functional space includes in-house amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen and washroom, and can be utilized upon request for private events.

Matter believes in environmental and social responsibility, both of which inform our decisions and partnerships on every level.  We collaborate with local arts based non-profit organizations and monitor our environmental footprint.  Matter is proudly working toward producing a sustainability report in 2018 to measure our impact and progress using the Global Reporting Initiative standards.  

Lara Morton

Founder

“Dialogue between cultures is a vital and beautiful thing. I want to make this experience accessible to all audiences through visual art."

Lara is the founder of contemporary Toronto art gallery, Matter. A passionate art lover, world traveller and sustainable business entrepreneur, her diverse background includes corporate social responsibility, impressive academic achievements and a unique combination of charitable foundation and financial services expertise.

As founder, Lara leads the artistic, socio-ethical and economic strategy for the gallery. Her collective experience is a driver in Matter’s key relationship management and successful programming.

Lara believes in the cultivation of a supportive and inclusive gallery environment for both artists and collectors. She deeply believes that exposure to the arts is important for everyone. In her role, she promotes art education and actively encourages cross-cultural interaction across all gallery audiences. 

Starting with a Bachelor of Arts from McGill University, Lara also holds a Masters degree in Public Administration from the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy in Singapore, and a graduate certificate in Sustainability and Innovation from Harvard University. Her global experience extends beyond her education as she has volunteered in India, Myanmar, Vietnam, Peru and Canada for a variety of human rights organizations. Lara has also worked with UN Women in Singapore and Kayan New Generation Youth, a non-profit organization in Thailand.

Lara’s proven ability to manage relationships, operate with limited resources, and adapt to widely diverse cultural norms while representing a brand or organization make her a unique leader in the Toronto arts scene.

Zack Pospieszynski

Program Director

“We all started somewhere. If art is not fostered, it cannot flourish.”

Zack is regarded as one of the leading authorities on contemporary art in Canada, with more than 30 years of experience in the international art world. As director of the acclaimed Peak Gallery in Toronto for 12 years, Zack represented artists who work in a wide range of media including video, photography, sound, installation, painting, drawing and sculpture.

Known for his dynamic programming, Zack brings technical know-how as well as an intuitive eye to his work at Matter. Much of Zack’s professional career has been devoted to artist development and includes work with many of Canada’s most highly regarded names in the field. He has helped foster successful careers through his commitment to mentorship and deep art market savvy.  

Zack is respected by visitors and collectors alike, who admire his knack for discovering talented artists from around the world. Alongside his keen eye, his unique ability to achieve a fine balance between what’s new and what’s established continues to set him apart in the industry.

An award-winning artist and educator, Zack holds a Master’s degree in Fine Art and Education from the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw, Poland. 

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04/19/17 - We're excited to announce that Matter Gallery's inaugural exhibition "Here Forward" has been reviewed by art critic Terence Dick featured on Akimbo! 

Read about our opening here.