Barry Keldoulis Top Job

Noted ‘art identity’ Barry Keldoulis recently closed his Sydney gallery and while many wondered what he was up to, and whether the much-discussed ‘projects’ model of continuing GBK in the guise of pop up galleries, art fair stalls and the like, would actually pan out, yesterday’s announcement perhaps puts all that in the past. The gregarious Keldoulis has just been appointed Group Fairs Director of the Melbourne Art Fair and Sydney Contemporary. The press release explained:

“Respected Australian art identity Barry Keldoulis has been appointed CEO and Group Fairs Director of Art Fairs Australia Pty Ltd, the presenting company behind the new Sydney Contemporary art fair, launching this September, and the Melbourne Art Fair.

Tim Etchells, founder of Art Fairs Australia, commented on the appointment: “Barry’s extensive knowledge of the Australian and international art scene will make him invaluable in helping us develop both Sydney Contemporary and the Melbourne Art Fair.”

“With more than three decades experience in the industry working around the globe, Barry has a first-hand understanding of the makings of a successful art fair, having attended innumerable international fairs, both as an observer and a participant, throughout North America, the UK, Europe and Australia including ArtHK, Art Stage Singapore and Frieze in his capacity as gallery director of GBK,” said Etchells.”

Keldloulis will oversee Sydney Contemporary, the new biennial contemporary art fair being presented for the first time at Eveleigh-based arts institution Carriageworks from 20th until 22nd September 2013. Sydney Contemporary and the Melbourne Art Fair will be presented on a biennial basis in alternate years, commencing with Sydney Contemporary this September and followed by the Melbourne Art Fair in 2014.