Roberta Fallon, a prominent figure in the Philadelphia arts community and co-founder of the esteemed digital publication Artblog, has passed away at the age of 76. Fallon, who tragically lost her life due to injuries sustained from a car accident in November, is being fondly remembered by her colleagues and friends as a vibrant and influential presence in the local arts scene.
A memorial in honor of Roberta Fallon is scheduled to take place on March 7th at the Moore College of Art and Design, where she was deeply involved in fostering artistic endeavors.
Together with her close friend and fellow artist Libby Rosof, Fallon launched Artblog in 2003 with a mission to showcase and uplift underrepresented artists and galleries in Philadelphia. Through a variety of content including reviews, interviews, and comics, Artblog quickly gained traction and garnered a devoted following of 4,500 subscribers. Fallon’s dedication to providing a platform for marginalized voices in the art world was evident in every aspect of the publication.
In a poignant conversation with Hyperallergic, Rosof reminisced about the early days of Artblog and the duo’s shared vision for inclusivity and representation in the arts. Their collaboration not only brought about a thriving digital publication but also fostered a sense of community within the Philadelphia art scene.
Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1949, Fallon relocated to Philadelphia in 1984 and immersed herself in the local art scene. As a founding member of Philadelphia Sculptors and a faculty member at Saint Joseph’s University, Fallon’s impact on the artistic landscape of the city was profound and enduring.
Describing herself as both an artist and activist, Fallon championed the ideals of accessibility and community in art. She believed in making art available to all, breaking down barriers that often hindered people from engaging with the creative world.
Annette Monnier, a fellow art writer and contributor to Artblog, lauded Fallon’s unwavering optimism and her ability to envision a more inclusive art world. Despite the challenges she faced, Fallon remained committed to uplifting struggling artists and reshaping the narrative of the art scene.
Fallon’s legacy will live on through the digital archive of Artblog, preserved by Moore College of Art and Design. She is survived by her husband, Steven Kimbrough, three children, and four grandchildren.
Roberta Fallon’s impact on the Philadelphia arts community is immeasurable, and her memory will continue to inspire future generations of artists and art enthusiasts.
