Vivant Art Collection

I love this place! The owner is extremely professional, friendly, and passionate about art and how it intersects across other communities. One of the best art galleries in Philadelphia. I always enjoy events that they host that promotes diversity in art. Go Vivant!

This is Old City’s newest art gallery and it’s already roughly 3 months old. Unfortunately these galleries always give me a foreboding feeling inside. It’s not because I don’t like them, it’s just that they always seem to do too much way too soon. I’ve already seen too many similar galleries like it go out of business within a year (Qbix, Sol, Carbon 14, etc.)
But this gallery sure is lavish and worth hitting up on a First Friday (although they do have other hours). their primary specialty is West African and Balinese masks, and they have a whole lot of them. but they also have a good amount of pottery, island jewelry, and a few Haitian paintings. you’d probably get all of the above for cheaper in West Africa, but this way you don’t have to bother with the airfare. so it kind of evens out.
As I hinted above these guys really go all out on a First Friday. I’ve treated myself to all kinds of good food like meat pies and chocolate covered strawberries (I especially liked the strawberries!). And they have a fully stocked bar. I can’t say if they have beer, but they have had all kinds of wine, and plenty of flavored alcohol of an exotic variety. Please note though I’ve haven’t seen many galleries do this every single time. So while here could be an exception, I’m not going to vouch for it.
I just hope they can sale some art, otherwise it might not be around much too longer. but maybe this review might help that cause. at least the masks are worth it!