Nexus Arts Announces New Joint CEOs
The Adelaide-based organisation has historically given diverse or underrepresented artists a platform to showcase their worthy talents to broader audiences.
Zhao Liang and Kim Roberts (Morgan Sette, Bri Hammond)
Nexus Arts, Adelaide’s beloved cultural institution, has just unveiled the appointment of South Australian arts leaders Zhao Liang and Kim Roberts as the organisation’s new Co-Chief Executive Officers.
Located at the Lion Arts Centre on North Terrace, the organisation, which recently celebrated its fortieth birthday, has dedicated itself to upholding and supporting the arts in Adelaide, particularly when it comes to redressing the lack of representation of culturally diverse figures throughout the Australian arts. From its humble origins in 1984 in a custard and flour warehouse, Nexus Arts has historically given diverse or underrepresented artists a platform to showcase their worthy talents to broader audiences.
Liang and Roberts are replacing former CEO Emily Tulloch, who was appointed in 2022 after several years as the Artistic Director of Nexus.
“On behalf of the Nexus Board, we are thrilled to welcome Zhao Liang and Kim Roberts as Co-CEOs,” said Nexus Arts Chair, Terri Dichiera.
“Zhao and Kim bring a unique blend of creative vision, strategic leadership, and deep community connection to the organisation. Their combined experience will strengthen our mission to celebrate cultural diversity and expand Nexus Arts' impact locally and nationally.”
Originally born in Singapore and now based in Adelaide, Liang is revered as a highly accomplished composer, musician, producer, and teaching artist. She was commissioned by the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra as a composer in their community project Floods of Fire, and has since toured South Australian schools with the orchestra.
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Liang states, “Although I was born in Singapore, my artistic practice has been very much born and bred in South Australia and hugely supported by Nexus Arts throughout the years.
“As I step into this role, I do so with great honour and deep respect for the work of our predecessor, Emily Tulloch. I hope to build on her legacy by continuing to foster a space for intercultural collaboration. Now more than ever, I will strive to amplify our voice across South Australia and beyond.”
Kim Roberts is an experienced and passionate arts leader and advocate, enjoying 25 years in the music industry in charity management, community radio, festival administration, and as a working musician. She is currently General Manager for the Arts Industry Council of South Australia.
“It’s a real privilege to be stepping into this shared leadership role with Zhao at such an exciting moment for Nexus Arts,” Roberts says.
“This organisation has long been a leader in championing diverse voices and bold ideas. I’m energised by the opportunity to work alongside an exceptional team to deepen our impact, amplify artists from all backgrounds, and shape a future where intercultural creativity thrives at every level.”
Outgoing CEO and Artistic Director Emily Tulloch states, “It was a true honour to offer my service in leadership for a time, and I’m excited to witness the momentum, ideas, and creativity that this new leadership team will cultivate.”
This piece of content has been assisted by the Australian Government through Music Australia and Creative Australia, its arts funding and advisory body
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