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Artful is a 2012 novel by Scottish author Ali Smith and published by Penguin Books. it was shortlisted for inaugural Goldsmiths Prize (2013).

Plot
In "Artful," Ali Smith crafts a mesmerizing tale that blurs the boundaries between literature, art, and reality. Set in contemporary London, the novel follows the life of an unnamed narrator who is grieving the loss of a loved one. Amidst her sorrow, she discovers a series of lectures left behind by her deceased partner, which delve into the profound connections between art and literature.

As the narrator delves deeper into these lectures, she becomes enraptured by the insights they offer into the nature of creativity and expression. Through a series of encounters with enigmatic characters and immersive explorations of iconic works of art, she begins to unravel the mysteries of her own grief and find solace in the transformative power of storytelling.

Interwoven with excerpts from classic literature and reflections on the artistic process, "Artful" becomes a meditation on the enduring significance of art in our lives. As the narrator navigates the complexities of loss and longing

, she discovers that the lines between fiction and reality are often blurred, and that art has the power to transcend the limitations of our own experiences.

Shortlisted for the inaugural Goldsmiths Prize, "Artful" is a poignant and inventive exploration of love, loss, and the redemptive power of creativity. Through its lyrical prose and inventive narrative structure, Ali Smith invites readers on a journey that challenges their perceptions of art, literature, and the human experience.

Reception

 * 'smart, allusive, informal, playful, audacious' - The Independent
 * 'a seductive and compelling case for the power of imagination' - The Guardian