Biography

Matt Petley Jones

Petley Jones Gallery, established in 1986 by Matt Petley-Jones, stands as a distinguished institution in Vancouver’s art community. Nestled in the vibrant Granville Street area, the gallery specializes in both contemporary and historical artworks, representing a diverse array of Canadian, American, and European artists. With a collection featuring works by iconic figures such as Emily Carr, Jean-Paul Riopelle, Lawren Harris, and Picasso, Petley Jones Gallery offers a rich tapestry of artistic expression.

Born in Edmonton, Matt Petley-Jones graduated from the University of Alberta in 1978 with a Bachelor of Arts Special, majoring in painting. He credits his passion for art to his family; both of his parents were professional photographers, and his uncle, Llewellyn Petley-Jones, a Canadian Impressionist painter, significantly influenced his aesthetic sensibilities. Matt’s artistic journey led him to establish Petley Jones Gallery, where he serves as the owner, director, and painter. His own artworks focus on creating movement through broken-down forms and the interplay of color on canvas, aiming to retain the essence of his subjects while introducing new dimensions through a vibrant palette.