Roberta presenting artwork.
Although a prolific and successful artist, Roberta is also a highly respected gallerist, being involved with the opening of Regional Galleries in Wollongong and Wingecarribee Shire, and her own hugely successful galleries in Berrima. Roberta used these galleries as breeding grounds for emerging artists, a way to connect with her community and above all a successful venture to sell artwork for Australian and International artists. In fact, her two galleries in Berrima, The Barn Gallery and The Bell Gallery, quickly became tourist attractions for the area, drawing crowds of interstate and overseas visitors.
Her exhibitions displayed artwork from artists such as Pro Hart, David and Arthur Boyd, Brett Whiteley, Sir Sidney Nolan, Norman Lindsay, Charles Blackman, Robert Dickerson, David Voigt, Margaret Woodward, Peter Hickey, Jenny Sages and many, many more. As with the large names displaying their work, Roberta also attracted celebrities from Australia and abroad to open her exhibitions. From politicians such as, John Hewson, John Fahey and Smokey Dawson, through to TV and radio personalities such as Ray Martin, Alan Jones, Maggie Tabberer and Geoff Janz. Roberta’s galleries drew crowds from around the country, often filling her doors with more than 600 guests at her openings.
In her role as a gallerist, Roberta gave full support to both decorative arts and fine arts. Her galleries allowed her to become a prestige antique dealer and allowed her to build the careers of Australian craftsmen and sculptors.
The Barn Gallery, Berrima 1973 – 1989
Jack and Roberta Howland established the Barn Gallery in 1972, selling Australian craft, master potters, antiques and fine arts from a barn situated on two acres of land in Jellore Street, Berrima. Another barn and studio were added and the site was landscaped to become a notable gallery and tourist attraction.
Widowed in 1978, Roberta carried on and extended the business, holding major art exhibitions at the Barn Gallery from 1983 until the property was sold in 1989.
She writes that her early training in design contributed to her success as a gallerist:
Design expertise was an invaluable asset in my career as a gallery owner and director, reflecting my connection with artists, clients and the public. It became, in a way, a signature for my promotions through various invitations, exhibitions, posters and Christmas cards.
Roberta Bell-Allen
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THE BARN GALLERY
The Bell Gallery, Berrima 1990 – 1998
The Bell Gallery was designed and built by Roberta Howland in collaboration with architect Ronald Gilling as part of a Georgian-style business complex and home (‘Bellthorpe’) in keeping with Old Berrima (founded 1830s).After building such a reputation for The Barn Gallery, Roberta continued this same high standard across to The Bell Gallery.
With a large welcoming bell donated by a friend, the Bell Gallery opened in 1990 and exhibited a broad spectrum of works by significant Australian artists, becoming a mecca for locals, tourists and serious collectors.
Michael Yabsley, MP, Minister for State Development & Tourism, congratulated Roberta when he visited the Bell Gallery on 26 August 1991, commenting:
You have created something of great beauty. Congratulations on making such an exciting contribution to Berrima.
Michael Yabsley, MP, 1991
If you would like to find out more about The Bell Gallery, click the button below.
THE BELL GALLERY
