Meet Our Team
Behind every exhibition and artwork is a team committed to connecting unique, contemporary art with collectors. We look forward to welcoming you to Gallery Merrick.
Joe Bembridge (Founder/Director)
Joe Bembridge is a Canadian gallerist and the founder and director of Gallery Merrick in Victoria, British Columbia. He is also the co-founder of Ashdale Gallery in North Vancouver and is preparing to launch Formation Studio.
Since founding Gallery Merrick in 2018, Bembridge has established himself as one of Canada's emerging contemporary gallerists, earning a reputation for presenting bold, distinctive exhibitions and representing both emerging, mid-career and established Canadian and international artists. Under his leadership, Gallery Merrick has become known for its strong curatorial vision, commitment to artistic excellence, and ability to connect exceptional artists with a growing community of collectors.
Drawing on more than 12 years of experience in the commercial art market, Bembridge has built successful galleries recognized for their dynamic programming and thoughtful approach to contemporary art. His eye for talent, understanding of the market, and dedication to fostering meaningful relationships between artists and collectors have positioned Gallery Merrick as a respected destination within Canada's gallery landscape.
A defining milestone came in 2025 when Gallery Merrick was accepted as a member of the Art Dealers Association of Canada (ADAC), a distinction that reflects the gallery's professional standing and Bembridge's growing influence within the Canadian art world.
Sabine is a Gallery Associate at Gallery Merrick in Victoria. With a Bachelor of Arts in Art History from the University of Victoria, her work is built upon a foundation of deep appreciation for both classic and contemporary Canadian and international art.
At the gallery, Sabine manages social media marketing, website curation, and other behind-the-scenes administrative tasks. This work allows them to help create thoughtful, engaging experiences that inspire curiosity, conversation, and lasting connections with art.
"Art has always been a way for me to connect with people, ideas, and stories. As a Gallery Associate, I love building relationships with artists and collectors while helping create meaningful experiences around contemporary art. I believe every artwork has a story to tell, and one of the most rewarding parts of my role is helping those stories find the people they resonate with most.
As a contemporary acrylic artist myself, my practice is rooted in exploring colour, movement, and visual expression through bold, pattern-driven works that bring energy and curiosity into a space. I completed a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in Environmental Studies and Anthropology at the University of Victoria, which has deepened my appreciation for the intersections between art, culture, history, and our relationship with the world around us.
I am passionate about supporting artists, fostering genuine connections, and making the gallery an inviting space where everyone feels welcome—whether they have been a collector for a long time or visiting for the first time. I'm excited to continue learning from the incredible artists we represent and to help share their work with new audiences."