In 1938, Roberts, joined the Eastern Group of Painters as a charter member, and in 1939, again as a charter member, joined the Contemporary Arts Society, as well as exhibiting at the New York World's Fair.
In 1938, Roberts became a founding member of the Eastern Group of Painters and in 1939, he also joined the Contemporary Arts Society, which was another significant event for him. He participated in the New York World's Fair that year as well.