Vicky Barone knows that art isn’t just something you look at—it’s something you feel. Whether it’s a card that makes you laugh out loud, a design that sparks nostalgia, or a little note of kindness that arrives at just the right moment, Vicky’s creativity is all about connection. Her work has landed in millions of hands and homes, but at its core, it’s always been about spreading joy in the simplest, most meaningful ways.
Vicky isn’t just an artist—she’s a storyteller, a kindness advocate, and the kind of person who believes that small gestures can have the biggest impact. From launching her brand, Barone & Co., to designing over 500,000 Kindness Cards during the pandemic, her work proves that creativity has the power to heal, uplift, and bring people together.
In this conversation, Vicky opens up about what inspires her, the magic of everyday moments, and why art is one of the most powerful ways to say, “I see you.” Keep reading to step into her colorful world—you won’t want to miss it.
Art as a Self-Expression Tool
TBN: Vicky, your creative journey began with a bold career pivot. How has art become a way for you to express your true self?
VB: Art has always been a way for me to process the world… Whether that’s through humor, color, or storytelling. Making the leap into a creative career wasn’t just about changing jobs; it was about aligning my work with what truly lights me up. Art gives me the freedom to express my personality, my observations, and my love for human connection in a way that feels authentic.
For me, humor plays a big role in that. There’s something powerful about making people laugh—it’s an instant bridge between emotions and experiences. My work, whether it’s a greeting card or a piece of art, is ultimately about sparking joy and reminding people to celebrate the small (and sometimes hilariously awkward) moments in life. In a way, art is my own form of mindfulness. It keeps me present, keeps me playful, and most importantly, keeps me connected to others.
TBN: Your designs are vibrant and full of life. What message or emotion do you hope to share through your art?
VB: My goal is always to create something that feels joyful, relatable, and a little unexpected. Whether it’s a card that makes someone laugh out loud or a design that sparks nostalgia, I want my art to create a sense of connection. Life can be messy, funny, and beautifully imperfect, and I love capturing that energy in my work.
At the heart of it all, I want people to feel seen. A great design or a well-placed phrase has the power to make someone feel understood, even for just a moment. That’s what keeps me inspired… Knowing that something I create might bring a smile, start a conversation, celebrate someone, or even just brighten someone’s day.
TBN: As an artist, do you feel your work evolves alongside you as a person? Can you share an example of a project that deeply reflects who you are today?
VB: I definitely think my work evolves as I do. Creativity isn’t static. It reflects what I’m experiencing, what’s inspiring me, and even what I’m learning about myself. When I first started, I was focused on making things that looked good. Now, I’m much more interested in making things that feel good.
My work is heavily inspired by my own experiences and relationships. The little moments that make me laugh, the conversations I have with friends, and even the quirks of everyday life all influence my art in some way. One project that really reflects where I am today is my line of greeting cards. They’re playful, full of humor, and designed to bring people together.
I’ve realized that connection is at the core of everything I create. Whether it’s a laugh shared between friends or a message that makes someone feel understood, I want my work to be a little spark of joy in someone’s day. That’s something I’ve come to value more in my own life, and I love that my art reflects that.
Healing Through Art with Vicky
TBN: Vicky, in moments of personal or global challenge, how has your art helped you find clarity or healing?
VB: Art has always been a way for me to process what’s happening around me, whether it’s something personal or a bigger shift in the world. When things feel uncertain, creating gives me a sense of control. It’s a way to channel emotions into something tangible, whether that’s through humor, color, or storytelling.
During challenging times, I find myself leaning into the kind of work that brings comfort and connection. Sometimes that means making something lighthearted to lift people’s spirits. Other times, it’s about creating designs that remind people they’re not alone. Art has this amazing ability to meet people where they are. It doesn’t have to fix anything, but it can offer a little moment of relief, and that in itself is powerful.
TBN: What do you believe is the relationship between creativity and mental well-being?
VB: Creativity and mental well-being are so closely connected. For me, creating isn’t just about making something beautiful or funny—it’s about expression, problem-solving, and even stress relief. When I’m in a creative flow, I’m fully present, which can feel a lot like meditation. It’s a break from overthinking and a chance to channel energy into something meaningful.
I also think creativity helps us process emotions in a way that words sometimes can’t. Whether it’s doodling, writing, or brainstorming ideas, creative work has a way of turning feelings into something tangible. And on the flip side, sharing that creativity with others fosters connection. A simple piece of art or a funny card can make someone feel understood, which is such a powerful thing.
For me, creativity isn’t just a job, it’s a tool for joy, connection, and staying grounded.
TBN: You’ve created over 500,000 Kindness Cards during the pandemic. How did this act of compassion affect your own healing during such a difficult time?
VB: That project was incredibly personal for me. During a time when the world felt so disconnected, creating the Kindness Cards became a way to bridge that gap, even in a small way. It reminded me that even when things feel overwhelming, small acts of kindness still have an impact.
The process of designing and sending out those cards gave me a sense of purpose during such an uncertain time. Every message of encouragement, every note of gratitude, it all reinforced the idea that we weren’t alone in what we were feeling. I also wanted to show my kids that even as an artist, I could have an impact. You don’t have to be on the front lines to make a difference. Creativity can be a tool for good, and the simple act of sharing something meaningful can help lift others up.
In a way, the project was just as healing for me as it was for those who received the cards. It was a reminder that creativity isn’t just about making something, it’s about using what you create to bring people together.
Barone & Co
TBN: Founding a brand as a woman can be a powerful statement. What challenges did you face in starting Barone & Co., and how did you overcome them?
VB: Starting Barone & Co. has been an exciting and deeply personal journey, but like any creative business, it has come with its challenges. One of the biggest was simply embracing the business side of things. As an artist, my focus has always been on creating, but building a brand meant learning how to market, sell, and scale in ways that didn’t always feel natural at first.
Another challenge was overcoming the doubt that can come with putting your work out into the world. It’s one thing to make something you love, but it’s another to confidently say, “This has value, and people need to see it.” I had to shift my mindset from just being a creator to also being an advocate for my own work.
I overcame those challenges by surrounding myself with a community of other artists and business owners who understand this journey. I asked questions, I learned through trial and error, and I reminded myself why I started in the first place: to create something meaningful and help people connect. Barone & Co. is a reflection of that mission, and knowing that keeps me moving forward even when things feel uncertain.
TBN: Sustainability is a big part of your mission at Barone & Co. What steps do you take to ensure your work reflects your environmental values, Vicky?
VB: Sustainability is something I think about in every stage of creating for Barone & Co. From the materials we use to how we produce and package our products, I want to make choices that are thoughtful and responsible.
One of the biggest steps we’ve taken is using FSC-certified paper, which ensures that the paper comes from responsibly managed forests. We also prioritize working with local printers and manufacturers to reduce our carbon footprint. Even in our packaging, I look for ways to minimize waste, whether that’s through recyclable materials or eliminating unnecessary plastic.
Beyond materials, I also believe in creating with intention. Rather than designing products that are trendy for a moment and then forgotten, I focus on timeless designs that people will want to keep, share, and cherish. Sustainability isn’t just about what we make things from—it’s about creating things that truly last.
It’s an ongoing process, and I’m always looking for ways to do better. My goal is to make sure that as Barone & Co. grows, we continue to make choices that align with our values and have a positive impact.
Spread the Love
TBN: You’ve said that your mission is to brighten someone’s day through your designs. What’s the most rewarding story you’ve heard from someone impacted by your work?
VB: One of the most rewarding stories I’ve heard is from a woman who was going through cancer treatment. During her chemo sessions, she would bring my cards with her and hand them out to other patients and staff as a way to spread a little joy in such a tough environment. She told me that those small moments of connection helped her feel less alone.
Now that she’s in remission, she’s worked with me to fund the donation of more cards to that same facility so she can continue supporting others the way she felt supported. That kind of full-circle moment reminds me why I do what I do. A simple card can be so much more than paper and ink… It can be a spark of kindness, a little moment of relief, or a reminder that someone cares. Seeing how my work can create those connections is the most rewarding part of all.
TBN: If you could share one message of kindness or encouragement with the world right now, what would it be?
VB: I would remind people that small moments of kindness matter more than we realize. A thoughtful word, a shared laugh, or a simple “I see you” can change someone’s entire day. We often think impact has to be big to be meaningful, but it’s really the little gestures that create the strongest connections.
So whether it’s sending a card, telling someone you appreciate them, or even just being kind to yourself, know that those moments add up. The world can always use more light, and you never know when yours might be exactly what someone needs.
Click here to check all the interviews from our “Empowered Women Empower Women” series.
