A special summer issue of Modern Painters, which will be published in installments on ARTINFO this month, surveys the world’s best galleries, across six continents and 36 countries. Throughout the issue you’ll hear from 50 of the most influential gallery owners and directors, discussing their achievements and envies, the artists they have their eye on, and the regional trends affecting this increasingly international market. Below you’ll find Q&As with one gallerist based in Toronto. To see other installments from the special issue, click here.
DANIEL FARIA GALLERY | TORONTO, CANADA
ARTISTS: Shannon Bool, Douglas Coupland, Iris Häussler, Mark Lewis, Kristine Moran
ESTABLISHED: 2011
CONTACT: danielfariagallery.com; info@danielfariagallery.com; +1 416 538 1880
DANIEL FARIA, OWNER/DIRECTOR
How did you get your start as a gallerist?
I worked at a regional museum, then decided to pursue my M.A. in art history, which led to working at a commercial gallery in Toronto. I knew after being there a short time that it was what I needed to do.
How have you generally discovered new artists? Are there any new discoveries for the gallery whom you’re especially excited about?
I look at art as much as possible, at both emerging and established artists. Relationships build over time, which leads to group shows, solo shows, and representation. Many times other artists and collectors will also tell me I should look at certain artists they think I will respond to.
What was your biggest show of the past year?
We had a solo show of new work by Douglas Coupland that coincided with a museum survey show that was shown jointly by the Royal Ontario Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art. That was a big moment for the gallery this past year.
What’s one show you loved in the past year at a gallery other than your own?
“In the Studio” at Gagosian was remarkable for its ambition, and Ad Reinhardt at David Zwirner was life-affirming. These were next-level exhibitions.
What trend do you see happening in your region right now?
Lots of galleries are moving to larger spaces and consolidating in the neighborhood right around my gallery. There wasn’t much here when I moved in four years ago, but it’s great to have helped create a new dynamic art hub in Toronto.
What might you be doing if you weren’t a gallerist?
Dog walker.
If cost were no object, what work of art would you have in your bedroom?
A Mark Manders sculpture!
