The Association of Women Art Dealers is pleased to welcome Margaret Campbell-Ryder as our newest Global Member. She also has the distinction of being our first member from Australia!
As with all new members we were curious about Margaret’s business and her background in the arts:
What’s your professional background?
I have been Director/Curator of Red Hill Gallery, in Brisbane, Australia, for more than two decades. I am recognised for my enthusiastic support of artists, and tireless championing of the Brisbane and Australian art scene.
My curatorship, organisation, planning and presentation of quality exhibitions have been a natural progression from my extensive experience in fashion, retail and event management. As Fashion Buyer for one of Australia’s iconic brands and later as General Manager responsible for the operation and profitability of 26 stores, I developed an exceptional ability to identify market trends and buyer preferences. I have used these skills throughout my career and found they are of great value in my curatorial role.
My early career in fashion led me to develop an instinctive eye for beauty. I have matched this with proven longevity in the art world, working hard to make Red Hill Gallery one of Australia’s leading independent galleries. Most recently, I have embraced digital technology to enable my artists to continue to showcase their work to the art community world-wide.
I am passionate about supporting, encouraging and mentoring artists to succeed. As part of this, I developed a popular and successful internship program for local art students.
And in recognition of my expertise and support for emerging artists, I am regularly called upon to judge community and festival art shows and prizes in Brisbane and further afield.
What inspired you to take the leap and start your own business?
My background in fashion and business coincided with an opportunity to purchase an existing gallery in a strong market presence. The chance to nurture artists and represent their talents to the public provided an attractive avenue to enter the art world and generate a strong creative platform for me.
What does your business offer, in terms of goods and services?
Red Hill Gallery is recognised as one of Australia’s best independent galleries, featuring a comprehensive selection from over 120 traditional and new generation artists. It features monthly exhibits of realist, impressionist and contemporary paintings, works on paper, sculpture, glass, ceramics and hand crafted jewellery.
What excites you about having joined the Association of Women Art Dealers?
AWAD provides a unique opportunity for exposure to other like-minded art dealers worldwide—to learn and to share. I am excited by the prospect of liaising with other owners to discuss their approaches to their business, and to share their experiences.
The Australian art market is small, compared to the rest of the world, but filled with incredible talent and diversity. I am keen to showcase this talent to AWAD.
As a curator, I am driven to gain maximum exposure for my artists, leading to my use of digital technology and social media to its full advantage. The art world is changing, with many moving to online only. I believe there must be an integration between social media, online exhibitions and presentations – all linked back to the bricks and mortar that represents the true gallery experience.
“Embrace change and work in the here and now – not yesterday.”
What brings you joy in your work?
I love having free reign to express my own creativity in the gallery and to share my knowledge with clients. I am motivated by the love and respect I have for my artists, and continue to be captivated by their talents and achievements.
If you were a work of art, what piece would you be?
A Picasso – because of the many facets there are to me. More importantly, my creative mind that never rests.
For more information on the gallery please visit www.redhillgallery.com.au
