Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ruth-Ann Thorn. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Ruth-Ann thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?
In the world of entrepreneurship, the path is rarely straightforward. For me, it started in 1988, at a time when my circumstances felt far from ideal. With only a ninth-grade education under my belt, I took my first step into the art business, not knowing that this would be the foundation for an exhilarating journey filled with challenges and triumphs.
After several years of learning the ropes and honing my craft, I felt a fire growing inside me, urging me to take a leap of faith. In 1995, I made a bold decision: I would go out on my own and start an art gallery. The vision was clear, but the journey was anything but easy. My initial idea didn’t manifest itself in the way I had imagined. Instead, I launched a pop-up tour, setting up art shows in various hotels over the following three years.
Financially, things were tight. I didn’t even own a computer, so all my invitations were created in black and white, a testament to my limited resources. But I poured my heart into each show, resiliently navigating the hurdles that arose. I learned to embrace risks as opportunities, understanding that every setback could lead to a new avenue of growth.
By 1998, after years of relentless determination, I found myself standing at the brink of another pivotal moment. I opened my first brick-and-mortar gallery in La Jolla, California. Leveraging every bit of savings I had for the build-out and lease, I stepped into the unknown with only one month’s rent in the bank. Looking back, it seemed like an impulsive move, yet it was the culmination of years of hard work and a belief in my vision.
That leap into the art world paid off. Over the next three decades, I navigated the complexities of entrepreneurship, owning and operating seven art galleries. I learned about leadership, creativity, and the power of teamwork, mentoring over 130 employees along the way. Each gallery brought its own set of challenges, but the experiences were invaluable, shaping who I am today.
Now, as I stand on the threshold of a new venture, I find myself once again taking a risk—this time, stepping into the beauty industry. My journey has come full circle, and with years of knowledge behind me, I am fueled by the same passion that ignited my art career. I’m determined to create something beautiful, meaningful, and transformative, just as I did with my galleries.
Reflecting on my journey, I realize that the risks I took weren’t recklessness but rather essential steps in my growth as an entrepreneur. Despite the challenges, I’ve built a legacy of resilience, creativity, and passion. As I embark on this new chapter, I carry with me the lessons learned along the way: that taking risks can lead to unimaginable rewards and that sometimes, the most beautiful creations emerge from the unlikeliest of beginnings.
Ruth-Ann, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
My name is Ruth-Ann Thorn, and I am an enrolled tribal member of the Rincon Band of Luiseño Mission Indians. My journey into the world of art and entrepreneurship has been shaped by my heritage, determination, and a passion for creating meaningful connections through art and stories.
My Journey Into the Art Industry
With over three decades of experience in various facets of the fine art industry, I began as a global art dealer, where my passion for art ignited in 1988 when I took my first job in this field. In 1995, I founded Exclusive Collections Galleries as a resource for private collectors, institutions, and corporations. Over the next 26 years, I expanded EC Galleries to several prestigious locations, including San Diego, Beverly Hills, Laguna Beach, Caesars Forum Shops in Las Vegas, and Breckenridge, Colorado. This venture was more than just a business for me; it was a way to connect people with the power and beauty of art.
In 2000, I established Crown Thorn Publishing-Artists Management, a full-service company dedicated to assisting artists with public relations, sales and marketing, curation, and exhibition planning. My work has always been centered around uplifting and supporting the artistic community.
Moreover, I serve as a top adviser and consultant to Indian Country. Through my consulting company, EC Art Services, I curate art for various spaces such as hotel expansions, government centers, healthcare facilities, casinos, and any environment that requires culturally relevant art.
Documentary Filmmaking and Artistic Advocacy
I am also a documentary filmmaker, director, producer, and host, having created compelling content that shares important narratives. My series, “Art of the City,” aired from 2018 to 2023 on FNX and PBS, showcasing the cultural significance of art in urban settings. Additionally, I am excited to share that “THIS IS INDIAN COUNTRY,” a groundbreaking travel series about modern-day Native Americans, is scheduled to air in 2024 on FNX First Nations Experience and PBS affiliates, with global distribution by Animiki See Distribution.
From 2004 to 2012, I served as the Editor-in-Chief of Off the Easel Magazine and contributed as a writer for Art World News, allowing me to share insights and highlight the stories of artists.
I co-founded Imprint Registry, a technology company that provides a highly secure global art registry. This empowers artists, sellers, and buyers by offering permanent title certificates and records of authenticity, provenance, and ownership—a critical step in ensuring that artists receive the recognition they deserve.
Entering the Beauty Industry
In 2022, I ventured into the beauty industry by founding N8iV Beauty, the first skincare brand created by a Native woman, infused with acorn oil sourced from tribal land. This product reflects my commitment to celebrating our culture and offering luxurious, effective skincare solutions.
A Historic Achievement
In 2025, I made history as the first Native American to own property in the historic Gaslamp Quarter of downtown San Diego by purchasing the iconic Yuma Building on Fifth Avenue. This achievement allowed me to open the first Native American luxury boutique, Native Star, which showcases Indigenous artists and their work in a space that pays homage to our rich culture and legacy.
What Sets Me Apart
What sets me apart is my deep-rooted connection to my Indigenous heritage, which informs every endeavor I undertake. I am committed to authenticity, cultural sensitivity, and providing meaningful narratives through art and beauty. My journey has been shaped by resilience, passion, and a unwavering belief in the power of storytelling and creativity to inspire and uplift others.
Proud Accomplishments
I am most proud of my ability to break barriers and create opportunities for not only myself but for countless artists and community members. My work has provided a platform for underrepresented voices, allowing them to shine and share their stories. I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that my brand embodies the spirit of innovation, cultural pride, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Through my journey as an art dealer, filmmaker, entrepreneur, and now beauty innovator, I remain committed to using my experience to empower others, celebrate our rich culture, and create impactful stories that resonate with people from all walks of life.
Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?
Without a doubt, the most important quality for success in my field is flexibility and the readiness to pivot. You can possess all the knowledge in the world and create well-laid plans, but one thing that’s certain is change. The art world, like many industries, is constantly evolving, and I have learned to evolve alongside it.
For any entrepreneur, being adaptable is essential. There will always be challenges and unforeseen obstacles, but within every problem lies an opportunity. I have embraced this mindset, recognizing that there is always a “hole” in every issue that can provide a new perspective and a pathway to success.
I have tried to remain calm during times of uncertainty, allowing fear to acknowledge me without taking control. This approach has been crucial, as I’ve discovered that with each challenge I face, there’s often an innovative solution waiting to be uncovered. By staying flexible and open to new possibilities, I have been able to navigate the unpredictable nature of my industry and continue to grow my ventures.
Ultimately, the ability to adapt and find creative solutions has been one of the most significant contributors to my success as an entrepreneur.
Any advice for managing a team?
Every team is unique, and effective management requires understanding the specific dynamics at play, whether you’re overseeing analysts, salespeople, or creatives. In my experience, I primarily manage creative professionals and salespeople, and each group has different needs.
For creatives, it’s essential to provide them with the freedom to innovate while also keeping them on track. They thrive in an environment where their ideas can flourish, but they also need guidance to ensure that their creativity aligns with our goals and timelines. Encouragement and constructive feedback can motivate them to produce their best work.
On the other hand, managing salespeople is akin to working with racehorses—they are driven and ambitious, but any small setback can easily spook them. It’s crucial to help manage their emotional state, especially since high-quality sales professionals often face a significant amount of rejection. A good leader acts as a coach, providing encouragement during tough times and helping to maintain their confidence. Setting achievable goals can also give salespeople clear targets to work toward, fostering a sense of accomplishment and motivation.
Ultimately, being an effective leader requires a substantial time commitment and a genuine willingness to be present for your team. This presence allows you to build trust, foster open communication, and address any concerns promptly. Regular check-ins, team-building activities, and an open-door policy can go a long way in maintaining high morale and ensuring that your team feels supported and valued.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://n8ivbeauty.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruth.annthorn/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ruth.annthorn
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthannthorn
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@artofthecitytv
Image Credits
Laura bravo mertz