Art historian and curator Katy Hessel has made a career out of bringing fresh energy to the art world. Her latest book, How to Live an Artful Life (2025), turns her signature passion for accessibility into something deeply personal — a guide to finding creativity, beauty, and meaning in everyday life.
Art as a Way of Living
Unlike a traditional art history text, Hessel’s new book functions more like a daily reflection journal. Each of its 366 entries begins with a quote or insight from an artist — figures like Louise Bourgeois, Marina Abramović, and Nan Goldin — followed by Hessel’s own interpretation and a simple invitation for readers to think, act, or notice differently.
But Hessel is quick to clarify that “living artfully” doesn’t mean becoming an artist or constantly visiting galleries. Instead, it’s about cultivating curiosity, paying attention to one’s surroundings, and approaching daily life with creativity and care.
“In a world full of noise, being artful means slowing down and really seeing what’s in front of you,” she explains. “Art isn’t just what hangs on a wall — it’s how we move through the world.”
From Instagram to International Recognition
Hessel first gained recognition for her Instagram project @thegreatwomenartists, where she spotlighted overlooked female artists from across history. That initiative eventually led to her acclaimed book The Story of Art Without Men (2022), which redefined how art history can be taught and understood.
With How to Live an Artful Life, she expands that vision beyond museums. Rather than focusing solely on artists’ biographies or achievements, she explores what their creative practices can teach us about our own routines — how we find inspiration, face challenges, and appreciate beauty in small moments.
Themes That Shape the Book
Each month in the book carries a subtle theme:
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January reflects on beginnings and finding ideas.
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February focuses on love and human connection.
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August celebrates beauty and perception.
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December closes the year with joy and reflection.
The structure allows readers to engage at their own pace — picking it up daily, weekly, or whenever they need a creative boost.
Hessel’s writing gently reminds us that art is not about exclusivity but inclusivity. “Art belongs to everyone,” she often says, “and everyone has the capacity to live creatively.”
Beyond the Gallery
Hessel’s influence continues to reach beyond the page. She frequently advocates for free access to museums and cultural spaces, encouraging a more open and diverse art community. Her enthusiasm for sharing art through digital platforms has made her a leading voice for the next generation of curators and creators.
Her message is clear: living artfully isn’t about aesthetics alone — it’s about presence, intention, and imagination. It’s finding beauty in imperfection and meaning in the everyday.
Why It Matters Now
In an age of constant distraction, How to Live an Artful Life feels like an antidote — an invitation to reconnect with creativity on a human scale. Whether you’re an artist, a student, or simply someone seeking inspiration, the book offers a gentle reminder that art doesn’t just decorate life — it shapes it.
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