Toronto artists Joel Gregorio and Matteo Jana come together for a one-night exhibition.

Some of Toronto's most compelling cultural moments are happening beyond traditional gallery walls. On November 20, Toronto-based artists Joel Gregorio and Matteo Jana will present In Plain Sight at KNIFE Toronto, bringing together two generations of the city's creative community for an exhibition at the intersection of art, design, and hospitality.

The exhibition marks a new chapter for Gregorio, the artist behind State Goods, following his participation in Hotel Confidential, a contemporary art exhibition held at The Royal Hotel in Prince Edward County earlier this year. Curated by Christina Zeidler and Stacey Sproule, the exhibition brought together 16 artists from different disciplines and geographies, transforming the historic hotel's rooms and shared spaces into immersive installations. The exhibition attracted attention from The Globe and Mail, CBC Arts, and The Picton Gazette, which featured Gregorio's work.

Now, Gregorio joins forces with emerging Toronto photographer Matteo Jana, bringing together two distinct approaches to the art of observation.

For In Plain Sight, Jana presents documentary photographs captured during his recent travels through rural Japan. From quiet landscapes and agricultural communities to intimate, unposed encounters, the series offers a personal study of the people and places that often escape our attention. Presented alongside Joel Gregorio's intricate collage works, Jana's photography introduces a documentary counterpoint to Gregorio's constructed visual worlds.

The setting is equally intentional. Known for its carefully curated selection of Japanese cutlery, design objects, and its Slow Coffee Bar, KNIFE has established a distinctive approach to retail and hospitality rooted in craftsmanship and attention to detail. From its considered product selection to its meticulous pour-over coffee service, the space reflects the same appreciation for overlooked details that runs throughout the exhibition.

That philosophy extends to the opening night experience, where guests will enjoy two custom cocktails developed specifically in response to the exhibition. Featuring 1800 Tequila and Bushmills 10 Year Old Single Malt, the Japanese-inspired drinks explore themes of duality, observation, and the beauty of everyday ingredients through unexpected combinations.

More than a conventional gallery opening, In Plain Sight brings together art, design, and hospitality in a celebration of Toronto's independent creative culture, creating a space for the city's artists, designers, and cultural tastemakers to connect.

About the Artists

Joel Gregorio — Artist & Founder, State Goods

Joel Gregorio is a Toronto-based artist whose practice through State Goods explores collage, visual storytelling, and the reinterpretation of familiar imagery. Drawing on public-domain artwork and historical visual references, Gregorio creates layered compositions that explore nostalgia, desire, and the relationship between the visible and unseen.

In April 2026, Gregorio participated in Hotel Confidential, a multidisciplinary exhibition at The Royal Hotel in Prince Edward County. His installation, Do Not Disturb, was presented in the Barlow Room alongside work by Spark Box Studio. The exhibition brought together local and international artists working across photography, sculpture, performance, and installation, with coverage from national and regional arts publications.

With In Plain Sight, Gregorio continues to develop his practice through a new collection of limited-edition prints and original collage works.

Matteo Jana — Photographer, Director & Creative

Matteo Jana is an emerging Toronto-based photographer, director, and multidisciplinary creative working across photography, film, and visual storytelling. His practice spans commercial and independent projects, with an emphasis on observation, atmosphere, and the human experience.

Working across creative direction, photography, and production, Jana has developed projects for brands and independent creative ventures while building his personal photographic practice. He is also involved with The Remix Project, a Toronto-based organization supporting emerging creative talent.

For In Plain Sight, Jana presents a series of photographs from his recent travels through rural Japan. Documenting quiet landscapes, everyday encounters, and fleeting moments, the collection reflects his interest in finding beauty and meaning in scenes that often pass unnoticed.