Women of Mission Farms: Meet Valerie Phillips of Gallery V Fine Arts
As part of our series celebrating the female business owners of Mission Farms, we’re featuring Q&As with some of the owners. Get to know Valerie Phillips, Owner and Curator of Gallery V Fine Arts. Click here to watch an interview with Valerie and SheKC Lifestyle
What got you into this business/industry?
I have a degree in art. Studied many realms of art and design. I'm now going into my 20th year in the art gallery industry.
With passion and love for the fine arts, I knew I had to work in the field of fine art. But, it all actually started 20+ years ago with an explosive day dream about owning a gallery! I had never worked at a gallery and didn't know that I ever would. Then about 5 years later, a surprising shift occurred while going back to school. I picked up a part-time job at an art gallery, which ultimately turned into my 2nd career!
What is the most challenging part about owning your own business?
Wanting to nurture and grow "your baby" (the vision and dream!) beyond measure. Wanting it to grow faster than possible. Loving what I love too much when I need to go home for personal life at the end of the day and then waking up at 3:00 am with 3 more things that I realized I have to add to my to-do list!
Who is your woman spirit animal?
PEGASUS
(Strength and Power. Deliberateness in Flight. And Freedom!)
What is your favorite part about running your own business?
Seeing my dream actualized. It's in looking back over the years that I see how far I've grown from day one. When my customers come back again and again and then bring back their family and friends, I know I'm spreading joy and satisfaction to other's lives. The ultimate is seeing their faces and homes light up from a happy transformation through art!
What is the best piece of advice you can give young adults?
Tap into those childhood visions and dreams! These were at the core of our being and our authenticity when we first believed that all things are possible!
What is the best piece of business advice you have received?
Probably, don't micro-manage. Hire the best of the best to do what they do best, allowing the energy for ourselves to do the best of what we do best.
What is your favorite quote that keeps you motivated?
Go confidently
in the direction
of your dreams!
Live the life
you've imagined.
-Thoreau
My most favorite quote is actually printed on a magnet that I have had on my refrigerator and look at every single day. It's been my inspiration!
Where do you look to find inspiration for your business ideas?
My creative ideas flourish during quiet time at morning coffee, during my travels and while driving. Also, I tap on my experience and connecting with other gallery owners and artists in the field, locally to internationally.
What do you think makes your company stand out?
The color and ambiance. The variety of art mediums. The variety of shows and workshops offered to the public. We're frequently told by our customers, "It's such a happy place."