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Ann Roberts

Goodman Gallery

Professional Background

Ann Roberts is a highly respected executive producer known for her innovative approach to creative projects. With over 25 years of rich experience in the industry, Ann began her career in television commercial production, where her expertise and leadership were instrumental in the success of numerous campaigns. Her notable production company, Terraplane, offered her a platform to produce an array of feature films, and also allowed her to embark on diverse creative ventures, including publishing a children's book and producing the artistic event 'Art in the Dark.'

Transitioning from the world of advertising, Ann redirected her focus towards the vibrant contemporary visual art scene. In 2013, her dedication and keen eye for contemporary art were showcased in her first solo exhibition at ROOM, which marked a significant milestone in her artistic journey. The following year, she took a bold step by hosting her first contemporary art pop-up shop, effectively merging commerce with creativity, and this initiative turned into a successful series with six further installments involving collaborations with notable partners like The Artist's Press and David Krut Workshop.

In 2017, Ann demonstrated her leadership and project management skills by playing a pivotal role in producing the South African Pavilion for the renowned 57th Venice Biennale. This critically-acclaimed endeavor not only showcased South African art on an international stage but also highlighted Ann's commitment to promoting contemporary art.

As a co-founder and Director of TMRW (The Mixed Reality Workshop), Ann is at the forefront of exploring how contemporary art intersects with the latest digital tools of creation and exhibition. Her vision for TMRW highlights the importance of blending traditional artistic expression with modern technological advances, making significant contributions to the evolving landscape of the art world.

Furthermore, Ann demonstrated her project management prowess by overseeing the installation of William Kentridge’s solo exhibition, “Why Should I Hesitate,” which opened at Zeitz MOCAA in Cape Town in August 2019. This show further solidified her reputation as a key player in the contemporary art sector, fostering a deeper appreciation for art within the community and beyond.

Education and Achievements

Ann Roberts is a lifelong learner, having pursued a diverse educational background that supports her multifaceted career in the arts. She studied Foundation in Fine Art at Natal Technikon, which provided her with a solid grounding in the fundamental principles of artistic expression. Following this, she earned a Bachelor of Social Science in Marketing and Psychology from the University of Natal, equipping her with essential skills to navigate the business side of the creative industry.

Her passion for cultural resource management and policy analysis further propelled her academic journey, culminating in a Master’s degree from the University of the Witwatersrand (WITS). This extensive education underlies her ability to understand and engage with the complex dynamics of the art world, allowing her to successfully manage projects and productions.

Achievements

Throughout her career, Ann Roberts has achieved remarkable success across various domains. Not only did she lead Terraplane to produce a wide array of impactful films and commercials, but she also showcased her ability to publish a children’s book, expanding her creative portfolio.

Her foray into contemporary art through pop-up shops has made art accessible to a broader audience, paving the way for emerging artists to gain exposure in a saturated market. Her adeptness in collaborating with esteemed organizations highlights her expansive network and her commitment to supporting artistic communities.

In addition to her involvement with TMRW, her contribution to the South African Pavilion at the Venice Biennale stands as a hallmark of her career, demonstrating her ability to elevate South African art on an international platform. Ann's management of prominent exhibitions, such as the one featuring William Kentridge, exemplifies her exceptional project management skills and her dedication to fostering innovative art experiences.

Closing Thoughts

Ann Roberts’s journey through the realms of advertising, film production, and contemporary art showcases her versatility and passion for creativity. With an impressive educational background and a wealth of practical experience, she continues to be a thought leader and trailblazer in the art and production sectors. Her commitment to exploring new dimensions of art, particularly through the integration of digital tools, positions her as a vital figure in the art community, inspiring others with her innovative approaches and artistic endeavors.

Related Questions

How did Ann Roberts transition from television commercial production to contemporary visual arts?
What inspired Ann Roberts to co-found TMRW (The Mixed Reality Workshop)?
What were the key challenges Ann faced while producing the South African Pavilion for the 57th Venice Biennale?
How does Ann Roberts define the intersection of contemporary art and digital tools?
What impact has Ann Roberts’s educational background had on her career as an executive producer in the art world?
Ann Roberts
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Location

City of Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa