Art Spy: Joyce Gordon Gallery Holiday Salon Exhibit

Art Spy was invited by the Joyce Gordon, and for those not in the know check out the numerous accolades Joyce and her gallery received by googling her, to a very fabulous Holiday Salon Exhibit at her gallery this evening.

So, of course I went. 

Joyce always pulls out all the stops for her exhibits and Art Spy does like a glass of this or that occasionally—by the way the eggnog was fantastic.

A little background on the word “salon” as it does have special significance when used in reference to art. Salon was the official art exhibition of the Académie des Beaux-Arts in Paris, France. From1748–1890 it was the greatest annual or biannual art event in the Western world. Salon has become a nice term for a gallery show and it is always good to know the correct terminology in the art world.

Joyce curates a fantastic show this year which includes 25 local artist. The show is paintings, photography, sculpture, etchings, pop art, a gamut of really special pieces. The amazing thing about JGG is how original the art is, every artist that shows at her gallery is an original and influences are hard to find in this group’s work.

While all of the art was fantastic, there were a few in particular which really stood out.

The photographs of Diallo Mwathi Jeffrey, beautifully colored city and landscapes in limited edition prints are worthy of a second and third look. Cliff House Fantasy One, one of 48, archival pigment on cotton, is one of my favorites. Picture 2, far right, center.

Sasica Smith’s abstract dots and swirls were another standout. The artists’ use of color, texture, and form were both comforting and inventive and evocative of primitive culture and pattern. Picture 3

Rob Grant’s series of three pieces of acrylic on found materials is stunning. The artists’ process is deep and I recommend a conversation with him to really get some understanding about how his pieces come to life. “What a Wonderful World”, picture 4, is acrylic on a cabinet with a door that opens to reveal a striking depiction of heaven.

John Waguespack’s, oil and ink on Birchwood, “Audrey” is fantastic. Picture 5, subtle use of color and form and texture combine to make this a great favorite of Art Spy.

The show will be up through the holidays so hustle down to Joyce Gordon Gallery at 406 14th Street, Oakland, CA. 94612, visit her website at www.joycegordongallery.com , or email her at info@joycegordongallery.com.

Remember art is alive and thriving in Alameda County. Have a tip for Art Spy please send to artspy510@gmail.com I will bring art to light.