Fab Fridge: RIP Antony Roberts - Artist (1958-2014)

Antony Roberts -
Open Fridge Exhibition 2010

The magnet exhibitions have featured the work of over 1000 artists in a short 4 year period and a regular participant with us has been artist Antony Roberts. Amongst the hard work and logistical juggling I have the opportunity get to know many of these artists, not only their work but also if I'm lucky to meet them in person. I was doubly lucky to spend time with Antony Roberts away from the heat of exhibitions and even managed a few nights sketching on the London Jazz circuit.

Antony Roberts - Beware of Fishing
Freezchester 2010

It is therefore with great sadness that I have to tell you that Tony passed away peacefully on the 31st March this year at Princess Alice Hospice in Esher. This past year had been a tough one, with his on-going Cancer treatment sapping his strength. He didn't submit to our exhibitions at this time but below I would like to show you some of his excellent work from previous years.

Antony Roberts
LightBite Exhibition 2011

Antony Roberts exhibitions include -

Open Fridge 2010 (Gallery 89, Barnet)

FAB Fridge 2010 (Fringe Arts Bath)

Freezchester 2010 (Hazard MMX Festival/Arndale Centre Manchester)

Lightbite 2011 (LightNight Festival Nottingham)

Brighton Open 2011 (Brighton Fringe Festival)

Rarities 2011 (Hastings Pier)
Hidebird 2012 (E17 Arts Trail)

Antony Roberts - The Duel
Freedbook 2012

He also published his artwork in the FreedBook in 2012. The 72 page publication was left in the book swapping libraries on London's transport network where they were picked up and have been passed around the world ever since. This was Tony's last project with us and we will be releasing a copy in Bath on 24th May. It seems fitting, as his contribution and the book itself represents the two qualities that I remember most about him, his generosity and humour.

He is missed. Never forgotten. Goodbye Tony.

I have already passed on many of your condolences to Tony's family, so thank you to all.

Alban Low (May 2014)