An Interview with Katrina Aleksa: Empowering Women in the Arts

Katrina Aleksa, co-founder of the Association of Women in the Arts (AWITA), is an influential figure in the world of art curation and investment.

Her journey into this realm has been shaped by a lifelong passion for art—a passion that has not only defined her career but also provided her with a deep sense of identity and purpose. For Katrina, art is more than a profession; it is a way of life that fosters creativity, connects people, and reflects individual stories.

At the age of 22, Katrina found herself standing in a New York gallery, surrounded by esteemed art dealers she admired. It was a transformative moment that ignited her ambition to be a part of that prestigious world.

Years later, in 2024, she had the opportunity to stand before 230 women at Christie’s auction house to introduce the AWITA conference.

This full-circle moment was a powerful affirmation of her dreams and an illustration of how far she had come in the art world.

Katrina reflects on this pivotal experience, recognising the significance of pursuing one’s vision, no matter the obstacles. “It reminded me to embrace change, evolve, and continually seek new beginnings,” she says. This moment reaffirmed her belief in the importance of following one’s passion and remaining open to new opportunities.

"We all come from different starting points and carry our own stories..."

Katrina’s career has always been rooted in a commitment to inclusivity and diversity in the art world. She believes that art should be a reflection of the people who create and experience it. “We all come from different starting points and carry our own stories,” she explains. For Katrina, inclusivity goes beyond being a checkbox; it is a core part of everything she does. She strives to create spaces where creativity thrives and where everyone—artists, clients, and colleagues alike—feels valued and heard.

By fostering these environments, Katrina believes she is helping to build a richer, more meaningful creative process. This approach allows for deeper connections and allows all involved to bring their authentic selves to the table.

"Having children grounds you in the present while making you more future-focused."

In the luxury sector, Katrina has worked tirelessly to align art with the values of high-end brands. Art in luxury spaces is more than decoration—it enhances the identity of brands and individuals while offering both emotional resonance and measurable returns. “Balancing art and investment means offering emotional resonance while delivering measurable returns,” Katrina explains. For her, art and luxury are not just complementary; they are natural partners that enhance the value of the other.

Motherhood has profoundly shaped Katrina’s professional journey. She describes the experience as transformative, shifting her focus toward long-term planning and strategic thinking. “Having children grounds you in the present while making you more future-focused,” Katrina explains. This new perspective has allowed her to balance her responsibilities and approach her art advisory and investment work with a sense of clarity and purpose.

Her ability to combine the demands of motherhood with her career has not only made her more resilient but also more intentional in her decision-making. She believes that this balance has allowed her to be more effective and purposeful in her work.

For women striving to juggle career ambitions with family life, Katrina offers valuable advice: prioritize your happiness and health. Inspired by the book Outlive by Peter Attia and Bill Gifford, she stresses the importance of reducing chronic stress and fostering meaningful connections. “When we focus on staying happy and healthy, we can show up as our best selves for both our families and careers,” she says. Katrina believes that true fulfilment comes from building a life that prioritizes both well-being and professional ambitions.

"When we focus on staying happy and healthy, we can show up as our best selves for both our families and careers."

As Katrina steps beyond her role at AWITA, her passion for art, inclusivity, and investment continues to drive her forward. Whether curating collections, advising clients, or fostering collaborations in the luxury space, she remains committed to empowering others and shaping the future of the art world. Her work exemplifies the power of passion, perseverance, and the importance of creating meaningful, inclusive spaces within the industry.

Looking to the future, Katrina is eager to continue inspiring others to dream boldly, work tirelessly, and embrace change with grace and confidence. Through her journey, she has proven that with passion, hard work, and an open heart, anyone can break barriers and make a lasting impact.