Art, Reality, Belonging
Musings from the ‘74 Community
KATE SCHELTER
Kate Schelter is an artist, illustrator, designer and the author of Classic Style. She began her career at Vogue as a photographer and went on to become a fashion stylist, creative director and owner of the luxury brand consultancy that bears her name. Kate graduated from Rhode Island School of Design and their European Honors Program in Rome. She lives between Pennsylvania and Cape Cod, MA with her husband and three children.
Where are you from and where are you now?
I am a New Yorker. In Philadelphia.
What are you working on recently?
Painting watercolors in my studio; bringing my art to life on products with beautiful brands.
A quote you live by?
“Be Yourself. Everyone else is taken.” Confidence to be myself every time I say my mantra. (Antidote to: “Compare and despair”.)
A space you return to time after time?
“I can make this.” The powerful realm of creative manifestation.
Your goal for 2025?
Be Brave. Trust myself. I know what I want.
What does the word ‘real’ mean to you?
When the outside aligns with the inside—it is something I feel. Something deeply human.
What defines your reality?
My creative vision. Trust.
An illusion you’d like shattered?
My creative potential in this lifetime.
Where is it that you most feel like you belong?
NY and with my best girl friends.
Your favorite neighborhood?
NYC—everywhere.
What holds the most power to alter your perceptions?
My creative mindset.
Something for now obscure or intangible that you’d most like to know?
The next opportunity coming to me.
The relationship of art with reality, for you?
Relevance (in this world, to oneself, and to others, is what) creates desire and connection.
Istanbul in three words?
Magical. Inspirational. The home of my beloved Demet.
What’s the real deal?
Stop trying to impress other people. True love. Laughter.