From Dream to Published: Kristy on Writing, Publishing, and Inspiring Artists

In the latest episode of Art and Cocktails, Kat welcomes back Canadian-born, New York–based artist Kristy Gordon for an inspiring conversation on the journey from dreaming of a book to holding it in your hands.

Kristy’s recent publication has been a milestone years in the making. She shares how the idea first took root in childhood, the creative and logistical steps of bringing it to life, and the remarkable opportunities that followed. From an endorsement by renowned critic Jerry Saltz to a Taiwanese translation, her book’s success has opened new doors and connected her with readers around the world.

Throughout the conversation, Kristy addresses common myths that hold artists back from writing, including the misconception that you must be a “real writer” to publish. She explains how both traditional and self-publishing paths work, and why maintaining your authentic vision is key, no matter which route you take.

Kristy also introduces her upcoming Essential Publishing Bootcamp, co-taught with Frannie, which offers artists and creatives a clear roadmap to bring their own book ideas into reality. The two-day live workshop covers multiple publishing options, step-by-step workflows, and real winning pitches that secured book deals. It is designed to help participants bridge the gap between creative inspiration and a finished, tangible product.

With an international exhibition record, representation by Garvey|Simon, Blumka Contemporary, and Grenning Gallery, and features in Vogue, Hyperallergic, and Fine Art Connoisseur, Kristy brings both artistic expertise and real-world publishing experience to the table. Her story is a reminder that artists can claim authorship in more ways than one—by shaping their careers, their narratives, and the physical books that carry their vision forward.

Listen to the full episode of Art and Cocktails featuring Kristy Gordon here and learn more about the Essential Publishing Bootcamp at https://www.down2art.com/Write-Your-book.

Create! Magazine is also accepting submissions for our upcoming issue. Apply to our current call for art at https://www.createmagazine.co/call-for-art.