As a Life Artist, Your Life is the Art That You Are Making
The essence of my journey has been discovering how to live authentically by aligning my values with my daily actions. This approach, which I call “life art,” transforms life itself into a creative practice, with libraries serving as a catalyst for this transformation. Years ago, I found myself stuck in unfulfilling jobs, yearning for a career that balanced work with the energy to pursue my passions for music, painting, and writing. With guidance from a therapist, I identified what I truly valued: meaningful work, a sense of community, and time for creativity. This realization led me back to libraries, where I had worked briefly during my undergraduate studies.
When I began as a shelver, I immediately felt a renewed sense of purpose. Libraries welcomed me into an environment that celebrated learning, service, and connection. This atmosphere sparked a transformation—not only did I feel part of something bigger, but I also found a way to integrate creativity into my everyday life. The concept of “life art” emerged from this experience. It’s the idea of approaching every action, no matter how routine, as an opportunity for creativity and personal expression. For me, shelving books, helping patrons, and engaging with colleagues became part of a larger artistic practice—living with intention and authenticity.
While I describe “life art” as being inspired by a sense of interconnectedness and care for others, this doesn’t require a belief in abstract ideals. It’s about fostering kindness, curiosity, and service in tangible ways that make a difference in everyday life. Libraries, with their mission to educate and connect, naturally align with this philosophy. As I advanced in my library career, eventually earning a master’s degree in library and information science, I began to see libraries as spaces for more than just books and information. They are places where people can explore their potential and create meaningful lives. Libraries support not only learning but also personal growth, offering opportunities to align professional responsibilities with personal fulfillment.
Today, I still pursue traditional art forms like music and writing, but life art has shown me that creativity doesn’t have to be confined to specific projects. Life itself becomes the canvas when approached with intention. Libraries, with their ability to inspire and empower, exemplify this mindset, fostering environments where individuals and communities can thrive. My journey, from feeling lost to finding purpose, underscores the transformative power of libraries. By providing spaces for exploration, connection, and service, libraries have helped me—and countless others—unlock new possibilities. This story is not just my own; it’s a testament to what libraries can offer to individuals and communities worldwide.
In embracing the philosophy of life art, we find not only personal fulfillment but also a deeper appreciation for the roles libraries play in shaping lives. Libraries are more than repositories of knowledge—they are platforms for creativity, connection, and growth, making them essential to our shared future.
