Theresa Roberts is a passionate advocate for Jamaican art and culture. As a collector, curator, and the founder of the Jamaican Patty Co., she has dedicated her life to showcasing the richness of Jamaica’s artistic heritage and cuisine. In this exclusive interview, she shares the inspiration behind her work, the challenges and triumphs of promoting Jamaican culture internationally, and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.
You’ve been a long-time advocate for Jamaican art. What first inspired your passion for collecting and curating?
On a visit to Jamaica, I stayed at the Half Moon hotel, and as I entered, a picture on the wall caught my attention. It was an image of a young girl selling mangos by the roadside. I was overwhelmed with emotion as that image represented me as a young girl. It was how that piece of art made me feel that ignited a passion in me.
How has your journey as a collector evolved over the years? Have there been any defining moments that shaped your vision?
I was given my first piece of art by a friend, David Begbie, which inspired me to collect more. As I delved into the world of art, I discovered Jamaica’s range of work and the variety of topics they explore. The 2022 exhibition Sweetness and Sorrow was an attempt to detract from the idea of Caribbean paradise and touch on subject matters such as the human body, disease, prostitution, and spirituality.
What do you think is unique about Jamaican art, and how do you see it positioned in the global art scene?
Jamaican artists possess a strong sense of culture and identity that is reflected in their work, but it is also impossible to capture just one definition of who we are as people. It is that uniqueness that makes Jamaican art worthy of its place on the global stage.
Your collection was featured in the Jamaica Making: The Theresa Roberts Art Collection exhibition at the Victoria Gallery & Museum in Liverpool. What was the experience like showcasing Jamaican art on such a platform, and what has been the most rewarding part of promoting Jamaican artists internationally?
One of the aims of the Jamaica Making exhibition was to encourage people from ethnic groups to visit museums and galleries, and I think we achieved this with over 8,000 attendees. The accompanying book that was produced for the exhibition is now in more than 900 universities and libraries around the world—I am incredibly proud of that.
How do you balance preserving Jamaica’s artistic heritage while also embracing contemporary expressions?
I want to showcase work from both, as this reaches a wider audience, and they are equally important. As an example, the three-generational Watson Dynasty comprises five artists, all influential figures in the arts.
Jamaican cuisine is beloved worldwide. What inspired you to launch the Jamaican Patty Co.?
It certainly is, and deservedly so! While staying in Jamaica as my home was being built, I lived on patties and coconut water. When the house was built, I was so proud and started to think about what else I could do to promote my beautiful country. That’s when the idea of JPC was born. It was about bringing a patty to England just how my dad used to make them.
How did you approach bringing an authentic taste of Jamaica to a UK audience?
My dad’s inspiration. He was all about quality first. It was natural to me as I know the Jamaican flavour. It has to be good quality food and naturally produced.
What were some of the biggest challenges in launching and growing the business?
It has been the hardest thing I have ever done, but also the most rewarding.
The Jamaican Patty Co. is more than just food—it’s a celebration of culture. How do you integrate your passion for art and heritage into the brand?
The most important thing is to show that Jamaica has fantastic food and fantastic artists that can travel.
Do you see any parallels between curating art and curating a food business?
Not really—art is art, and food is food.
What’s next for the Jamaican Patty Co.? Are there plans for expansion or new menu innovations?
Expansion. The work continues.
Your work bridges art, business, and cultural diplomacy. How do you see your role in shaping the perception of Jamaica abroad?
I am introducing my culture to an international audience, and my passion for Jamaica will never waver.
What advice would you give to young people looking to make an impact in the creative or food industries?
Do what you love, what your passion tells you to do. Success will follow.
If you could see one major change in how Caribbean culture is represented globally, what would it be?
I can’t speak for Caribbean culture—I can only speak for Jamaica.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind through both your art curation and business ventures?
That my grandchildren and great-grandchildren understand and appreciate their Jamaican heritage.