Victoria Chlebowski is a Russian-American interior designer, entrepreneur, and film producer best known for her long-standing marriage to actor Michael Imperioli, famed for his role in The Sopranos. While she’s often seen beside her husband at premieres and cultural events, Victoria has carved out her own identity in the worlds of design, theater, and spiritual life.

Quick Bio

Early Life and Family Background

Born in Russia in 1966, Victoria Chlebowski grew up in a Jewish household during the Soviet era. Her mother, Raisa, and Polish stepfather, Ryszard Chlebowski, played pivotal roles in shaping her artistic sensibilities. Due to rising anti-Semitism, the family emigrated to the United States in 1976, settling in New York City. Her stepfather, a master artisan, later collaborated with Victoria on several renovation projects, including a theater in Chelsea.

Education and Artistic Formation

Victoria’s education reflects her deep-rooted passion for the arts. She attended a private high school in California before enrolling at Elite College, where she studied art, philosophy, and German. Her academic journey continued at Parsons School of Design and The New School in New York City, where she focused on art history. These formative years laid the foundation for her future in design and creative entrepreneurship.

Career in Interior Design and Entrepreneurship

Victoria co-founded SVE New York, a boutique design firm, with her business partner Sonya Chang. The firm is known for its eco-conscious approach, specializing in furniture restoration and historic building renovations. One of their most notable projects was the transformation of a 19th-century Tribeca factory into a modern living space. Victoria’s design philosophy emphasizes sustainability, elegance, and cultural depth.

Marriage to Michael Imperioli

Victoria met Michael Imperioli in the mid-1990s, reportedly at a bar, and the two quickly bonded over shared interests in art, theater, and spirituality. They married on September 19, 1996, just five months after meeting. Their relationship has endured for nearly three decades, marked by mutual respect and creative collaboration. Michael often credits Victoria for grounding him and inspiring his spiritual journey.

Children and Family Life

The couple has three children: Vadim, David, and Isabella. Isabella is Victoria’s daughter from a previous relationship but has been raised within the Imperioli family. The family splits their time between Manhattan’s Upper West Side and Santa Barbara, California. Despite their public profiles, they maintain a relatively private and grounded lifestyle.

Involvement in Theater and Film

Victoria and Michael co-founded Studio Dante, an Off-Broadway theater in New York City. Victoria served as the artistic director, overseeing productions and creative direction. Her film credits include Joy de V. (2013), a noir thriller, and she has produced projects like The Hungry Ghosts and Circledrawers. These ventures reflect her commitment to storytelling and artistic expression.

Spiritual Life and Buddhism

Around 2016, Victoria and Michael embraced Buddhism, attending teachings by Gelek Rinpoche, Namkha Rinpoche, and even the Dalai Lama. Their spiritual practice includes meditation, philosophical study, and support for initiatives like the Tenzin Gyatso Scholars Program, which sponsors Tibetan monastics to study science in the U.S. Victoria’s spiritual journey has brought her peace, patience, and deeper self-awareness.

Media Presence and Public Image

Though married to a high-profile actor, Victoria maintains a low public profile. She occasionally appears at film premieres and cultural events but prefers to let her work speak for itself. Known for her elegance, privacy, and creative depth, she’s admired for balancing fame with authenticity.

Real Estate and Business Ventures

Victoria and Michael have made several real estate investments, including properties in Chelsea and Tribeca. They once owned a bohemian bar in Chelsea and renovated a Victorian home in Santa Barbara. Their real estate choices reflect a love for historic architecture and urban culture. These ventures also support their artistic and spiritual projects.

Challenges and Family Controversies

Like many public figures, Victoria has faced challenges. In 2016, her son Vadim was arrested for vandalism, including spray-painting a swastika in a college dorm. The family also battled COVID-19 in early 2020, with Victoria and one of her children falling ill. Despite these setbacks, the family has shown resilience and unity, continuing to thrive both personally and professionally.

Current Projects and Lifestyle

Victoria remains active in design, film production, and spiritual education. She continues to support Buddhist initiatives and is involved in a documentary about the Tenzin Gyatso Scholars Program. Her lifestyle blends urban sophistication with spiritual mindfulness, and she remains a quiet force behind many creative and philanthropic efforts.

Conclusion

Victoria Chlebowski is far more than just Michael Imperioli’s wife. She’s a visionary designer, film producer, and spiritual seeker whose life reflects creativity, resilience, and depth. From her early days in Russia to her current life in Manhattan, Victoria’s journey is a testament to the power of art, love, and transformation. Her story continues to inspire those who value authenticity and purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Victoria Chlebowski?
Victoria is a Russian-American designer, entrepreneur, and wife of actor Michael Imperioli.

How did Victoria Chlebowski meet Michael Imperioli?
They met in a bar in the mid-1990s and married in 1996.

How many children does Victoria Chlebowski have?
She has three children: Vadim, David, and Isabella.

What is Victoria Chlebowski’s profession?
She is an interior designer, film producer, and co-founder of Studio Dante.

Where does Victoria Chlebowski live now?
She resides in Manhattan’s Upper West Side with her family.

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