UK Art Historian Katy Hessel Visits NORTHART for The ABSTRAXT ABSTRAXT Exhibition as Part of Auckland Writer’s Festival

NORTHART had the pleasure of hosting UK art historian Katy Hessel, who visited to view The ABSTRAXT ABSTRAXT Exhibition. Hessel is in Tāmaki Makaurau as part of the Auckland Writer’s Festival, where she will discuss her acclaimed book, "The Story of Art (Without Men)."

Katy Hessel is well-known for her efforts to highlight the contributions of women in art, both historically and in contemporary settings. She established The Great Women Artists Instagram and Podcast to bring attention to the significant but often overlooked impact of women artists.

During her visit to NORTHART, Hessel spent the afternoon with Jessica Pearless, Co-Director of NORTHART and the curator of the ABSTRAXT ABSTRAXT exhibition, along with Julia Waite from Auckland Art Gallery, and a group of the exhibiting artists. The gathering provided an opportunity for in-depth discussions about the exhibition and the broader mission of supporting and showcasing artists.

The group toured the show, with Hessel taking the time to engage with each piece, demonstrating her genuine interest and respect for the artists' work. The conversation centred around the collective efforts to create spaces where artists can thrive and be recognised, emphasising the importance of championing artistic practices in a world that is in dire need of optimism and positive change.

Jessica Pearless commented on the visit, highlighting the inspiring nature of the interaction and the shared commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive art community.