Posted March 26, 2016 by Editorial Staff in Arts

[PROFILE] In 25 Words or Less: Joyce Gordon (Retail: Visual Arts)

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Key Influencers • Arts, Community and Business Leaders • Bay Area Personalities • Industry Experts.
What makes them tick? Find out . . .
In 25 Words or Less

Posted: March 26, 2016
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THE BASICS

Editor’s Note: In existence for over 13 years, Joyce’s gallery is one of the longest-running high-end art galleries in Oakland, while playing host to a number of community events throughout the year. It is also one of the original members of Oakland’s thriving Art Murmur gallery walks.

Name: Joyce Gordon
Age: 60+ • Status: Single • Kids: Yes
Place of Birth: Zachary, LA • Raised: Berkeley, CA
Professional Background: Joyce Gordon was a salon owner, stylist,and educator platform artist for major hair products and manufacturing company. She also published a styling book.
What achievement or position are you most known for? Opening and sustaining a fine art gallery in downtown Oakland for over ten years. Also providing a platform for non-profits and other organizations.
Contact/Follow: Email
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25 WORDS OR LESS: WORK

Job(s) held that is most unlike what I currently do now: Hairstylist
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Field: Arts
Yrs of Experience: 13
Title: Owner/Director
Company: Joyce Gordon Gallery • Oakland, CA
What it does and what I do: Organize and curate art exhibits, schedule other art related events at the gallery and other venues.
Current Big Project: Developing a Foundation of the arts 501c that will host art workshops at the gallery as well as partnering with other organizations.
Staffing/Resource Needs: Volunteers are always needed for hosting events and and assisting with workshops and office work.
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25 WORDS OR LESS: PROFESSIONAL PERSPECTIVE

Significant Challenge: Biggest challenge is saying no and not being able financially to support as many artist as I would like.
Significant Mistake/Regret: Opening the gallery without a business plan.
Significant Accomplishment: Maintaining the gallery for over ten years and still passionate about the business of art.
Biggest Strength(s): My unwavering faith is my biggest strength.
Biggest Weakness(es): Taking on other people’s issues is my business weakness…believing I can fix everything.
Career Advice: Have a written plan, follow it, and keep your faith. Surround yourself with positive people. Stay away from negative people or environment.
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25 WORDS OR LESS: PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE

Significant Challenge: Finance is my biggest challenge.
Significant Accomplishment: Raising two children who are physically healthy and successful.
Life Advice: Keep the faith, keep moving.
Trait(s) most admired in others: Dedication, patience, assertiveness.
Among several global issues of deep concern, one(s) that stands out to me: Education of people of color, homelessness and lack of employment.
Some causes/organizations I support: Most non-profits that work with inner-city youths.
Some of my most-admired people (excluding parents): Michelle Obama, President Obama, all Black Educators, daughter Ronda Johnson.
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25 WORDS OR LESS: LIFESTYLE

Hours of “personal” downtime/week: 8
Favorite activity(s) in my personal downtime: Walking, Reading.
Some of my favorite local hangouts: Museums, Book Stores, Jazz events.
Some of my favorite TV shows: Do not own a TV, do not watch TV.
What news outlets or media sources do you most rely on?: KPFA, KQED
Favorite Vacation Spot(s): Cuba, West Africa
Place(s) I would like to visit: South Africa, Brazil
Favorite Pastime/Hobby(s): Reading, Golf
Favorite Book(s): All books by Black people, about Black people.
Something about me that may surprise you: I still cut hair.
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