A "Q and A" session with Tarah:

Q. How did you get into the role of director at a gallery?

After completing my studies in art history, I moved from Montreal to Toronto. I knew my professional calling to be in the arts - dedication, perseverance, volunteer work and keeping a positive attitude each played important roles in my becoming the director of Ingram Gallery.

Q. What do you like most about your role?

Everything! I feel like I don't really have a job because I love what I do so much. From the spark of an enthusiastic new collector, to tracking the successful growth of a talented young artist, my career is very rewarding.

Q. Do you have a creative side, even other areas such as music?

I love to cook and eat. Good food and great art are not all that far removed. My younger brother is a professional chef and we often discuss the similarities of taking raw ingredients, understanding the concepts of line, colour and form and the creation of a beautiful end product.

Q. Do you do create art of your own?

Perhaps in my kitchen when a new recipe is successful! Otherwise, I'd have to say I do not create, I appreciate. The art I create would be in the theory, the knowledge and words surrounding a piece or a period in art.

Q. Do you do any lecturing?

I have, I enjoy the art of conversation and debate a great deal.

Q. Is Canadian art getting more known internationally?

This is a key area of interest to me. Yes, Canadian art is finally starting to get the international attention it deserves.

Q. Which country has the strongest appetite for Canadian art?

Canada, with the US and the UK not far behind.

Q. Is art as an investment a growing trend or are most collectors buying art for enjoyment?

There are many reasons that people collect art. The most important is because it moves you. Certainly now with the Canadian art market having been on the rise for the last 12 tears many are looking to Canadian art as a brilliant place to invest. The recent series of important Canadian art auctions reflect both the great interest in investments you can hang on your wall and international buyers coming to the forefront. Records are being broken at each sale, this month alone a small Tom Thomson oil sketch went for nearly one million dollars and a large Jean-Paul Riopelle abstract for 1.7 million!

Q. Do you do appraisals?

As a member of the Art Dealers Association of Canada (ADAC), I recommend ADAC for most appraisals.

Q. How long in advance do you have to book an artist or exhibition?

We work with our artists, scheduling exhibitions well over a year in advance. We have just finalized our 2007 exhibition schedule and are now at work on 2008.

Q. How does an artist get on the roster who has not been exhibited?

Hard work, dedication, determination and belief in self are necessary in finding successful representation. I know it is hard on a young artist, I wish a course was given in art school on how to find the right dealer. "Promote thy self" would be the best adage to follow!