Antonia Ruder is set to take over as the director of Gallery Weekend Berlin on November 1st, 2023, succeeding Maike Cruse. As the new director, she will collaborate with the existing team and advisory board to advance Berlin's most significant art weekend and continue to expand its already established format that has both national and international appeal​​.

Antonia Ruder's professional background spans across several roles within the cultural and arts sector. She most recently served as the head of communications at Schaubühne Berlin, one of Germany's most esteemed theaters. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between theater and visual arts through active initiatives and strategic programming. This role further deepened her knowledge and connection to Berlin's vibrant art scene​​.

Her academic specialization in Cultural Studies, Art History, and German Language & Literature paved the way for her career in the arts. Antonia Ruder began her professional journey as a consultant for visual and performing arts at the Kulturkreis der deutschen Wirtschaft e.V. (Association of Arts and Culture of the German Economy at the Federation of German Industries e.V.). She took up the curatorial supervision of the "ars viva" prize for young artists and played a key role in establishing the Corporate Collecting Working Group. Antonia later worked in the Cultural Engagement department of the BMW Group, where she coordinated and conceptualized international cultural collaborations, primarily in visual arts. This included BMW's significant involvement in Gallery Weekend Berlin​​.

The advisory board of Gallery Weekend Berlin expressed their optimism about Antonia Ruder's appointment, stating, "Due to her many years of experience in cultural communications and funding, as well as her extensive connections to galleries and artists, we are convinced that Antonia Ruder is the right choice to lead Gallery Weekend Berlin into the future." They believe that her impressive background and broad network within the arts community make her well-positioned to guide the organization forward​​.

Antonia Ruder, on her part, has voiced her enthusiasm for the new role, stating, "I'm very much looking forward to the new challenge of further expanding Gallery Weekend Berlin as a notable and indispensable date in the national and international art calendar. I'm excited about developing new formats, especially for the season's kick-off in September. The success of Gallery Weekend stands for the city's unique gallery scene and underscores the importance of Berlin as an art market hub. I see it as my primary goal to further strengthen its role and function. I’m eagerly anticipating the preparations for next year’s anniversary edition." This statement underscores her commitment to fortifying Berlin's position as a global hub for art and culture​​.

With Antonia Ruder at the helm, the future of Gallery Weekend Berlin seems set for an exciting and progressive journey, promising new avenues and opportunities for the flourishing Berlin art scene.