We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Vivienne Yang. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Vivienne below.
Vivienne , thank you so much for making time for us. We’ve always admired your ability to take risks and so maybe we can kick things off with a discussion around how you developed your ability to take and bear risk?
I was a very naughty child when I was little, always fighting with the boys in my neighborhood—maybe that’s where my risk-taking streak started. Later, my ability to take risks grew during the decade I spent as a journalist and news anchor. That job taught me how to handle uncertainty and adapt quickly—I was constantly diving into complex, high-pressure situations where the outcome wasn’t always predictable.
When I transitioned into the art world and started VillageOneArt, the risks felt different but just as real. Starting a gallery wasn’t a safe choice, but it felt necessary. I believed in the idea of creating a space where meaningful conversations could happen between cultures and generations. It wasn’t always easy; there were moments of doubt and financial challenges, but I learned to trust my instincts.
I think my approach to risk comes from a mix of preparation and belief. I always try to prepare as much as I can and surround myself with people who inspire and challenge me. But at some point, I’ve realized you have to leap—you can’t grow or build something meaningful without taking that chance.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I founded VillageOneArt in New York with my partner, Christy Qin. From the very beginning, I envisioned this gallery as more than just a space to showcase art—it’s a place where meaningful conversations happen, connecting cultures, ideas, and generations. VillageOneArt is deeply personal to me because it embodies my belief that art can bridge divides and create connections that transcend language and borders.
What excites me most about what we do is working with artists at different stages of their careers. There’s something incredibly special about discovering raw, fresh voices and providing them a platform to be seen and heard, while also working with established artists who continue to explore new creative territories. We focus on artists who delve into themes of identity, alienation, and cultural intersections—issues that feel especially relevant in today’s world. As a women-led gallery with a unique East-meets-West perspective, we are committed to fostering understanding and pushing boundaries in the art world.
Right now, we’re preparing for one of our most meaningful annual traditions: a group show in March to celebrate Women’s Month. This exhibition highlights female artists from diverse backgrounds, offering a platform for their unique voices and perspectives while building connections between artists and audiences.
What I’d love people to know about VillageOneArt is that we’re here for the long term. Every exhibition, every collaboration, and every conversation we cultivate is part of a bigger vision to create a community where art isn’t just seen—it’s deeply felt and understood.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, I’d say persistence, communication skills, and adaptability were the three most impactful qualities in my journey.
Persistence has been essential. Whether it’s launching VillageOneArt, building relationships with artists and collectors, or navigating challenges, there were moments where giving up could have felt easier. But staying consistent and believing in the bigger picture kept me moving forward. For those early in their journey, I’d say persistence isn’t about pushing blindly—it’s about staying clear on your goals and being willing to take small, steady steps, even when progress feels slow.
Communication skills have also played a critical role. Running a gallery isn’t just about art—it’s about people. From working with artists to connecting with collectors, being able to express ideas clearly and listen deeply is so important. My advice is to practice active listening. Pay attention to what people really mean, not just what they say, and don’t be afraid to ask thoughtful questions. Communication is as much about understanding others as it is about being understood.
Lastly, adaptability has been key. Whether I was transitioning from journalism to the art world or navigating unexpected situations, being able to adapt has made all the difference. The art world, like any field, is constantly evolving, and being open to change is essential. For those starting out, I’d say embrace uncertainty and see it as an opportunity to grow.
How would you describe your ideal client?
Our ideal client is someone who is open-minded, curious, and values the deeper meaning behind art. They don’t need to have extensive knowledge of the art world—what matters is their willingness to engage with the stories and emotions that art can evoke.
An ideal client sees collecting not just as acquiring objects but as building a personal narrative. They are interested in artworks that resonate with their experiences, ideas, and aspirations, and they view their collection as a reflection of who they are and how they see the world.
At VillageOneArt, we love working with clients who ask questions, who want to learn about the artists and the cultural and emotional layers behind each piece. It’s this kind of curiosity that leads to meaningful connections with the art.
For those considering their next piece, I encourage you to think about what resonates with you now. What speaks to your present moment or reflects the vision of yourself you want to carry forward? Whether it’s a bold statement piece or something more subtle, art has the power to capture your story and evolve with you over time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://villageoneart.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/villageoneart/#
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/villageoneart/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@villageoneart
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