Today we’d like to introduce you to Vivienne Yang

Hi Vivienne, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?

My journey has been a mix of different passions coming together. I spent 16 years as a journalist and news anchor at Phoenix TV, telling stories about people and moments that really mattered. I absolutely loved my job—it gave me a chance to dive into so many layers of humanity and explore what connects us.

Art came into my life almost unexpectedly, but looking back, it feels like it was meant to be. I’ve always been drawn to exploring humanity, and art gave me a new way to do that. In 2018, I founded VillageOneArt, and my partner Christy joined me. It’s been an incredible journey ever since.

Whether reporting the news or working with artists, my work has always been about storytelling and connection. That’s what drives me, and it’s what makes this work so meaningful.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

I wish it had been a smooth road, but not, its tough. I think that’s what makes the journey so rewarding. Starting a gallery, especially in a city like New York, is never easy. There’s a lot of competition, and we must constantly prove our vision and adapt to changes in the art world.

One of the biggest challenges for me was stepping into a completely new field after working in journalism for so long. I had to learn everything from scratch—how to build relationships with artists, navigate the art market, and create exhibitions that resonate. It was overwhelming at times but also exciting.

Another challenge has been balancing the creative side of running a gallery with the business side. It’s not just about showing beautiful art; you have to think about sustainability and growth, which can be tough.

But every struggle has taught me something. Whether it’s a tough decision or a learning curve, it’s all part of building something meaningful.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

VillageOne Art is more than just a gallery—it’s a community where creativity and individuality are celebrated. We specialize in contemporary art, with a focus on emerging artists who have unique, compelling voices. What sets us apart is our commitment to building meaningful relationships with the artists we work with and supporting them at critical points in their careers.

We take pride in being a women-led gallery with a deep connection to both Eastern and Western cultures. This gives us a unique perspective and allows us to bridge these worlds through the art we present. Whether it’s showcasing work in our Chelsea gallery or participating in art fairs like VOLTA, our goal is to bring fresh, thought-provoking perspectives to collectors and audiences.

Brand-wise, I’m most proud of how we’ve stayed true to our mission. We create a space where artists feel seen, collectors feel connected, and visitors feel inspired. What I want readers to know is that VillageOne Art is not just about the art—it’s about the stories, emotions, and ideas behind it. It’s a place where art becomes a bridge between people, cultures, and ideas.

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?

I think the most important quality is authenticity. Whether it’s building relationships with artists, connecting with collectors, or curating exhibitions, I always strive to stay true to myself and to the values that guide VillageOne Art. I believe people can sense when something is genuine—it creates trust and deeper connections.

Another key characteristic is resilience. The art world, like any industry, has its ups and downs. Being able to adapt, keep moving forward, and maintain focus on long-term goals has been essential. At the end of the day, it’s about staying passionate and believing in what we’re building, even when the road isn’t smooth.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://villageoneart.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/villageoneart/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@villageoneart