Joen Madonna

Joen Madonna is the Executive Director of ArtSpan, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the visual arts community in San Francisco. She has been with ArtSpan since 2014, initially joining as the Interim Executive Director before being appointed to the permanent role. Joen has also served on the ArtSpan Board since 2013 and has been involved with the organization in various capacities for over two decades, including as an artist participant starting in 2003.13

Background and Experience: Joen Madonna holds a degree in Cultural Geography from the University of California, Berkeley, where she graduated with honors. Her educational background has enabled her to blend her interests in urban evolution, human culture, and emerging art.12 With more than ten years of experience as a business manager and creative agent, Joen specializes in project management, public relations, and relationship management. She provides guidance to artists on increasing their audience exposure, creating business systems, and applying for grants.23

Contributions to ArtSpan: Under Joen's leadership, ArtSpan has focused on cultivating a vibrant and accessible arts community. She has played a crucial role in organizing events such as the San Francisco Open Studios, which connects local artists with diverse audiences.24 Joen's efforts have been recognized; she was named one of the "11 Most Powerful Women in Art" in San Francisco in 2019 and continues to be an influential figure in the local arts scene.3

As of October 2024, Joen announced her departure from ArtSpan after a decade of service, marking a significant transition for the organization as it celebrates its 50th presentation of San Francisco Open Studios.3