Roberts Projects is to open a newly restored, expansive space located in a historic 1948 building in the Mid-Wilshire district of Los Angeles. This relocation marks the gallery’s 23rd year as a significant voice in the Los Angeles arts community.
The new creative venue will occupy a 10,000 sq ft historic automobile showroom and feature four exhibition spaces, a bookshop, and a permanent site-specific space conceived by the trailblazing artist Betye Saar. The main exhibition space will be highlighted by a 30-foot-high vaulted ceiling with illuminated “wings.” This major expansion will triple the gallery’s footprint and provide an experience that is reflective of the gallery’s mission and long-term commitment to Los Angeles.
Our gallery has always focused on developing and nurturing young talent, building careers and preserving the legacies of our multigenerational roster of artists. This new location will allow us to greatly expand our efforts on these fronts while offering new opportunities for our artists and continuing to grow our vigorous programming.
– Julie Roberts, Co-Founder and Co-Owner
The architectural conversion was realized by the firm of Johnston Marklee which designed Roberts Projects’ Culver City location in 2008. The firm of Buro Happold led the lighting design.
The inaugural exhibition will feature a new body of work by renowned artist Kehinde Wiley, represented by Roberts Projects since 2002. Kehinde Wiley: Colorful Realm, on view from January 21 through March 18, 2023, will mark the artist’s sixth solo show with the gallery.
For over 20 years, the gallery’s publication division has produced books and catalogues focusing on exhibition surveys, contemporary artists and art historical monographs. To celebrate the opening of the new space and bookshop, Roberts Projects will release two major publications: Amoako Boafo and Betye Saar: Black Doll Blues.
This new space is the next chapter in our long history of being at the forefront of the Los Angeles art scene. Now amidst a creative renaissance, the city is further transforming. With access to outstanding exhibitions year-round, dedicated collectors, and creative energy from those who call this city home, Los Angeles is poised to be one of the most important creative hubs for years to come.
– Bennett Roberts, Co-Founder and Co-Owner