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Happiness: 25 Ways to Live Joyfully Through Art
What does happiness look like? For over 2,000 years philosophers have searched for it, scientists have studied it—and great artists have captured it in paint. Drawing upon his groundbreaking work in the psychology of happiness and mindfulness, Christophe André shares 25 paintings by a wide range of masters, including Van Gogh, Vermeer and Chagall, and invites us to consider how they capture the many colors of happiness in their art, alongside its inseparable shadow, sadness. This beautiful book explains how to look at a painting and let the picture speak and live within us. In this way, each painting holds a life-changing lesson, helping us to feel, meditate and reflect—and discover the meaning of happiness for ourselves.
224 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2006
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
May 27, 2019
In this book, Christophe André, an experienced psychiatrist, analyses psychological themes related to the human condition and well-being by exploring several renowned artworks. The author takes us on a journey through the hours of the day, metaphors for the stages we find ourselves in while in pursuit of happiness.
We first observe the birth of happiness, likened to the sun rising in the morning: the joy we feel during our childhood days, the delight accompanying us on our day-to-day lives.
The feeling soon morphs into an overwhelming bliss taking over our being, having thus reached the noon of its day, originating in love, selflessness, and why not, in our own efforts to experience it.
We then witness the melancholy of a sunset after a long, sunny day, a shadow being cast on a pretty face, or the first cold day of winter, when happiness slips through our fingers, gives us a goodbye kiss and rushes into the night, leaving us nostalgic, the faint outline of a smile still on our face.
Thus comes midnight, our happiness completely gone, and the memory of the good days faded, even deformed. At the culmination of darkness, pain could engulf us if not for the stars: reasons to fight, glimpses of hope, reminding us of the possibility that light will return.
And so it does. After night, morning follows, happiness comes back to us, the miserable times we went through making it possible for us to appreciate its return, and the cycle is complete, a cycle that will repeat itself over and over again.
This insightful book full of life and art lessons was for me a delightful experience, a fruitful read, and a way to view paintings that I hold dear to my heart in a new light. I recommend this book to art and psychology lovers alike, and to every person seeking inspiration, advice, meaning, or hope.
We first observe the birth of happiness, likened to the sun rising in the morning: the joy we feel during our childhood days, the delight accompanying us on our day-to-day lives.
The feeling soon morphs into an overwhelming bliss taking over our being, having thus reached the noon of its day, originating in love, selflessness, and why not, in our own efforts to experience it.
We then witness the melancholy of a sunset after a long, sunny day, a shadow being cast on a pretty face, or the first cold day of winter, when happiness slips through our fingers, gives us a goodbye kiss and rushes into the night, leaving us nostalgic, the faint outline of a smile still on our face.
Thus comes midnight, our happiness completely gone, and the memory of the good days faded, even deformed. At the culmination of darkness, pain could engulf us if not for the stars: reasons to fight, glimpses of hope, reminding us of the possibility that light will return.
And so it does. After night, morning follows, happiness comes back to us, the miserable times we went through making it possible for us to appreciate its return, and the cycle is complete, a cycle that will repeat itself over and over again.
This insightful book full of life and art lessons was for me a delightful experience, a fruitful read, and a way to view paintings that I hold dear to my heart in a new light. I recommend this book to art and psychology lovers alike, and to every person seeking inspiration, advice, meaning, or hope.
December 23, 2015
The author chooses 25 famous paintings that he analyzes through the lens of their message regarding the pursuit of happiness.
Happiness is the central idea of the book, and it is approached through a beautiful association of thoughts and emotions (inspired to the author by the paintings), references to psychology (how to integrate the thoughts and emotions inspired by the art of painting into day-to-day life), quotations from universal literature as well as from spiritual leaders, all of them integrated into a cycle defined by the author, that includes:
- the morning - how happiness starts
- the afternoon - happiness in full bloom
- the evening - the dark side of happiness
- the night - what is there when there is no happiness?
- the dawn - the rebirth of happiness
A delicate reading that generates awareness, hope, and some practical ideas on living mindfully, here and now.
Happiness is the central idea of the book, and it is approached through a beautiful association of thoughts and emotions (inspired to the author by the paintings), references to psychology (how to integrate the thoughts and emotions inspired by the art of painting into day-to-day life), quotations from universal literature as well as from spiritual leaders, all of them integrated into a cycle defined by the author, that includes:
- the morning - how happiness starts
- the afternoon - happiness in full bloom
- the evening - the dark side of happiness
- the night - what is there when there is no happiness?
- the dawn - the rebirth of happiness
A delicate reading that generates awareness, hope, and some practical ideas on living mindfully, here and now.
June 22, 2018
This book is an interpretation of art through the lense of finding happiness & the cycle of happiness. It was a very interesting & unique read, but also demanding.
Every chapter starts with a first-sight interpretation of a painting, the recognition of a few elements & some simple but thought provoking questions, which lead to a deeper lesson to be learned about happiness. I loved how art was a doorway to finding out meaningful things about how happines is born, rises and then falls. I would highly recommend this to anyone.
Every chapter starts with a first-sight interpretation of a painting, the recognition of a few elements & some simple but thought provoking questions, which lead to a deeper lesson to be learned about happiness. I loved how art was a doorway to finding out meaningful things about how happines is born, rises and then falls. I would highly recommend this to anyone.
May 6, 2018
When I found this book, i was so excited about its idea: to put together art and happiness :) When I was reading it I felt like I was standing in front of each of the masterpieces, together with the author and we are casually discussing about how they encompass happiness. A nice experience. My very positive rating is also influenced by how much I love paintings and all the stories behind them.
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April 17, 2025Book Review: Happiness: 25 Ways to Live Joyfully Through Art by Christophe André
In Happiness: 25 Ways to Live Joyfully Through Art, Christophe André presents an insightful exploration into the relationship between art appreciation and emotional well-being. Through a unique blend of artistic analysis and psychological principles, André guides readers on a journey towards greater happiness by engaging with art as a medium for reflection and personal growth. This book offers not only a collection of beautiful artworks but also practical approaches to cultivate joy and mindfulness in everyday life.
Overview and Structure
The book is organized around 25 carefully selected pieces of art, each chosen for its potential to inspire happiness and reflection. Each chapter dedicates itself to a specific artwork, providing readers with a thorough analysis of the piece’s context, significance, and aesthetic qualities. André’s commentary encourages readers to look beyond the surface, prompting them to consider how the artwork resonates with their own experiences and emotions.
The structure of the book allows for flexibility in reading; individuals can choose to engage with it in one sitting or explore it piece by piece. Each chapter contains practical exercises and reflections that invite readers to interact with the artwork on a deeper level, positioning them as active participants in their journey toward happiness.
Key Themes
Art as a Tool for Mindfulness: André emphasizes the importance of mindfulness in appreciating art. By encouraging readers to slow down and engage thoughtfully with each piece, he illustrates how art can serve as a meditative practice that enhances present-moment awareness.
Emotional Engagement: A central theme of the book is the emotional connection between the viewer and the artwork. André discusses how experiencing art can evoke a range of feelings, from joy and nostalgia to contemplation and peace, highlighting the power of art to reflect and shape our emotional states.
Lessons from Art: Each artwork is not merely presented as a visual piece but is explored for the lessons it can impart. André draws parallels between the themes of the artwork and everyday life, illustrating how art can provide insights into happiness, resilience, and personal fulfillment.
Diversity in Art: By featuring a variety of artistic styles—from classic to contemporary—André showcases the universal nature of happiness and the multitude of ways in which it can be expressed and interpreted. This diversity invites readers from various backgrounds to find resonance in the art.
Practical Exercises: Each chapter concludes with interactive exercises designed to deepen the reader’s engagement. These may include creative reflections, journaling prompts, or mindfulness practices aligned with the themes of the artwork, enabling readers to apply the concepts in their own lives.
Conclusion
Christophe André’s Happiness: 25 Ways to Live Joyfully Through Art is a compelling and visually delightful exploration of how art can enhance our understanding of happiness. Through thoughtful analysis and practical exercises, André empowers readers to harness the beauty and emotional depth of art as a pathway to joy and mindfulness. This book is highly recommended for anyone interested in the intersection of art, psychology, and personal well-being, serving as an essential resource for fostering a richer, more joyful experience of life through artistic engagement. By blending appreciation for art with psychological insights, André invites us all to embrace the transformative potential that exists in the world around us.
In Happiness: 25 Ways to Live Joyfully Through Art, Christophe André presents an insightful exploration into the relationship between art appreciation and emotional well-being. Through a unique blend of artistic analysis and psychological principles, André guides readers on a journey towards greater happiness by engaging with art as a medium for reflection and personal growth. This book offers not only a collection of beautiful artworks but also practical approaches to cultivate joy and mindfulness in everyday life.
Overview and Structure
The book is organized around 25 carefully selected pieces of art, each chosen for its potential to inspire happiness and reflection. Each chapter dedicates itself to a specific artwork, providing readers with a thorough analysis of the piece’s context, significance, and aesthetic qualities. André’s commentary encourages readers to look beyond the surface, prompting them to consider how the artwork resonates with their own experiences and emotions.
The structure of the book allows for flexibility in reading; individuals can choose to engage with it in one sitting or explore it piece by piece. Each chapter contains practical exercises and reflections that invite readers to interact with the artwork on a deeper level, positioning them as active participants in their journey toward happiness.
Key Themes
Art as a Tool for Mindfulness: André emphasizes the importance of mindfulness in appreciating art. By encouraging readers to slow down and engage thoughtfully with each piece, he illustrates how art can serve as a meditative practice that enhances present-moment awareness.
Emotional Engagement: A central theme of the book is the emotional connection between the viewer and the artwork. André discusses how experiencing art can evoke a range of feelings, from joy and nostalgia to contemplation and peace, highlighting the power of art to reflect and shape our emotional states.
Lessons from Art: Each artwork is not merely presented as a visual piece but is explored for the lessons it can impart. André draws parallels between the themes of the artwork and everyday life, illustrating how art can provide insights into happiness, resilience, and personal fulfillment.
Diversity in Art: By featuring a variety of artistic styles—from classic to contemporary—André showcases the universal nature of happiness and the multitude of ways in which it can be expressed and interpreted. This diversity invites readers from various backgrounds to find resonance in the art.
Practical Exercises: Each chapter concludes with interactive exercises designed to deepen the reader’s engagement. These may include creative reflections, journaling prompts, or mindfulness practices aligned with the themes of the artwork, enabling readers to apply the concepts in their own lives.
Conclusion
Christophe André’s Happiness: 25 Ways to Live Joyfully Through Art is a compelling and visually delightful exploration of how art can enhance our understanding of happiness. Through thoughtful analysis and practical exercises, André empowers readers to harness the beauty and emotional depth of art as a pathway to joy and mindfulness. This book is highly recommended for anyone interested in the intersection of art, psychology, and personal well-being, serving as an essential resource for fostering a richer, more joyful experience of life through artistic engagement. By blending appreciation for art with psychological insights, André invites us all to embrace the transformative potential that exists in the world around us.
December 27, 2024
I talk a lot about the gap religion has left in the modern world, and how we have left the spiritual lessons behind in favour of pure logical efficiency.
I talk about this, like every "world issue" I talk so passionately about, because I feel that loss in myself and am searching for a solution.
I picked this book up for a couple of pounds in a Withington charity shop over a year ago (on one of my Sunday wholesomeness trips). I have since dropped into a lesson or two every couple of weeks. More recently I've managed to read a passage in moments of stress and have always come out with a sense of calm, or at least less of a spiral. In that way I could view this book as a little bible to me.
Dan and Pat introduced me to mindfulness meditation in second year of uni, i did perhaps two weeks of sessions (over a much longer period) in my Manchester flat. These were useful but they were definitely small scale tools.
The poetic language and art (a method of distancing the practice from the productive results) allowed me to grasp, I hope, the feeling of what I want to achieve. It explains so many places where mindfulness can be used, in happiness, in despair, to deepen feelings of love, to connect, to slow. I think the broad background and understanding of what mindfulness can do gave it more purpose to me - instead of being a thing you do to fix anxiety.
It's something I've learned about myself recently, that I can only do something if I want to do it, instead of doing it to run away from something else. I think I'm starting to see mindfulness as a good hobby, for want of a better word, in itself.
As I've read this over a year, it is definitely worth a reread, in fact I see this as a resource I can pull from for a long time - it's calming effect is impressive. It's been a companion for a while and represents a little bit of the person I want to be.
Also, I get to feel a little pretentious learning a tad about art.
I talk about this, like every "world issue" I talk so passionately about, because I feel that loss in myself and am searching for a solution.
I picked this book up for a couple of pounds in a Withington charity shop over a year ago (on one of my Sunday wholesomeness trips). I have since dropped into a lesson or two every couple of weeks. More recently I've managed to read a passage in moments of stress and have always come out with a sense of calm, or at least less of a spiral. In that way I could view this book as a little bible to me.
Dan and Pat introduced me to mindfulness meditation in second year of uni, i did perhaps two weeks of sessions (over a much longer period) in my Manchester flat. These were useful but they were definitely small scale tools.
The poetic language and art (a method of distancing the practice from the productive results) allowed me to grasp, I hope, the feeling of what I want to achieve. It explains so many places where mindfulness can be used, in happiness, in despair, to deepen feelings of love, to connect, to slow. I think the broad background and understanding of what mindfulness can do gave it more purpose to me - instead of being a thing you do to fix anxiety.
It's something I've learned about myself recently, that I can only do something if I want to do it, instead of doing it to run away from something else. I think I'm starting to see mindfulness as a good hobby, for want of a better word, in itself.
As I've read this over a year, it is definitely worth a reread, in fact I see this as a resource I can pull from for a long time - it's calming effect is impressive. It's been a companion for a while and represents a little bit of the person I want to be.
Also, I get to feel a little pretentious learning a tad about art.
May 22, 2017
В русском варианте название книги "Искусство счастья. Тайна счастья в шедеврах великих художников".
И д е а л ь н а я к н и г а...
В книге собрано путешествие к счастью через шедевры, которые известны каждому. Сочетание ненавязчивой истории искусства с психологией просто идеальное, а для меня просто неоценимое. Посмотреть на картины Вермеера, Ван Гога, Климта, Клода Моне, Фрагонара, Гогена, Брейгеля, Мунка, Малевича и других через призму счастья - просто невероятно глубокий опыт. Искусство потрясает, удивляет, пугает, заставляет задуматься, а с этой книгой ещё и углубляется внутрь.
Меня редко удивляет книга, но в этот раз как-то совсем не отпускает. Мне хочется ее открывать каждый день, мне хочется продолжения. Эта книга, которую я хочу, чтобы моя дочь прочитала раньше меня (по возрасту). Ее жизнь будет более наполненной и счастливой, я уверена;)
Спасибо случившейся книжной терапии, которую я ждала около года. Книжная терапия - особый ритуал, который раньше случался раз в месяц. Ты просто приходишь в книжный и ищешь книгу, которая отзовётся. Из-за работы, бесконечности встреч и аукционов, роли мамы, моей книжной терапии просто не случалось. Мы несколько раз ездили всей семьёй в книжные, но каждый раз что-то раздражало и было не так. В этот раз я просто решила позволить себе опоздать на встречу, но зайти в магазин. Я полчаса выбирала сказки для дочки и в отделе книг по искусству я нашла книгу, которая меня дождалась. Ее не должно было быть на полке с альбомами по русскому искусству. Идеальное совпадение, глубокое попадание.
И д е а л ь н а я к н и г а...
В книге собрано путешествие к счастью через шедевры, которые известны каждому. Сочетание ненавязчивой истории искусства с психологией просто идеальное, а для меня просто неоценимое. Посмотреть на картины Вермеера, Ван Гога, Климта, Клода Моне, Фрагонара, Гогена, Брейгеля, Мунка, Малевича и других через призму счастья - просто невероятно глубокий опыт. Искусство потрясает, удивляет, пугает, заставляет задуматься, а с этой книгой ещё и углубляется внутрь.
Меня редко удивляет книга, но в этот раз как-то совсем не отпускает. Мне хочется ее открывать каждый день, мне хочется продолжения. Эта книга, которую я хочу, чтобы моя дочь прочитала раньше меня (по возрасту). Ее жизнь будет более наполненной и счастливой, я уверена;)
Спасибо случившейся книжной терапии, которую я ждала около года. Книжная терапия - особый ритуал, который раньше случался раз в месяц. Ты просто приходишь в книжный и ищешь книгу, которая отзовётся. Из-за работы, бесконечности встреч и аукционов, роли мамы, моей книжной терапии просто не случалось. Мы несколько раз ездили всей семьёй в книжные, но каждый раз что-то раздражало и было не так. В этот раз я просто решила позволить себе опоздать на встречу, но зайти в магазин. Я полчаса выбирала сказки для дочки и в отделе книг по искусству я нашла книгу, которая меня дождалась. Ее не должно было быть на полке с альбомами по русскому искусству. Идеальное совпадение, глубокое попадание.
July 20, 2025
Читала эту книгу на русском, и потому не могу сказать, была ли книга изначально плохой, или же плох конкретно этот перевод.
Идея у книги на самом деле ясная и потенциально интересная: через изобразительное искусство автор пытается рассуждать о счастье, вплет��я, хоть и очень замаскировано, понятия из современной психологии. Проблема в том, как он это сделал. Все здравые мысли он закопал под тоннами бестолковой мишуры: витиеватыми оборотами, затянутыми предложениями, притянутыми за уши сравнениями и странными библейскими отсылками, которые больше сбивают, чем раскрывают суть.
Всё это превращает чтение в сплошную пробуксовку. Последние главы — как брести сквозь густой колючий лес, где за каждой веткой вроде бы ждёшь просвета, но находишь только ещё больше зарослей.
Возможно, часть вины на русском переводе — французский оригинал я не видела. Но этот текст, каким он дошёл до меня, советовать не могу никому.
Идея у книги на самом деле ясная и потенциально интересная: через изобразительное искусство автор пытается рассуждать о счастье, вплет��я, хоть и очень замаскировано, понятия из современной психологии. Проблема в том, как он это сделал. Все здравые мысли он закопал под тоннами бестолковой мишуры: витиеватыми оборотами, затянутыми предложениями, притянутыми за уши сравнениями и странными библейскими отсылками, которые больше сбивают, чем раскрывают суть.
Всё это превращает чтение в сплошную пробуксовку. Последние главы — как брести сквозь густой колючий лес, где за каждой веткой вроде бы ждёшь просвета, но находишь только ещё больше зарослей.
Возможно, часть вины на русском переводе — французский оригинал я не видела. Но этот текст, каким он дошёл до меня, советовать не могу никому.
August 7, 2018
I loved the different, focused and insightful way of viewing these paintings and how they relate to happiness. The author is a psychiatrist (and certainly and art lover) who shares information on the art and artist and goes on to offer an lesson on happiness with each work. Some are indeed 'happy' pictures such as Peasant Life by Marc Chagall. Andre offers this an example of everyday happiness - of simple and living thing. He also explore happiness as something to work for, a source of wealth to share, and a reward. There are chapters on its companion, sorrow, and fleeting happiness, too. With each story and painting there is a lesson. What is your story of happiness?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2023
This is not a book that I would ordinarily read. The structure and writing, however, are excellent. I especially love the fact that the author is an expert in the field. Art is used to further drive the points home. This is a great choice for individuals struggling to find their happy place in life. Fans of art may also enjoy the book.
January 19, 2018
une perspective très intéressante sur l'art et la façon dont certaines œuvres nous affectent, du moment que l'on garde à l'esprit que l'art est par définition subjectif, et que deux personnes regardant la même œuvre ne ressentiront pas la même chose !
September 15, 2018
Didn‘t make it through. I should have checked inside before getting it. It is a walk through on the topic of happiness based on paintings. I‘m not into art enough to finish it but it was interesting for a few paintings
August 13, 2019
Very interesting premise - taking paintings as an inspiration to find happiness within and outside of them. Loved the lessons from each painting.
Very easy, relaxing read which I was able to finish in one sitting.
If you’re feeling blue and love art, this book is for you.
Very easy, relaxing read which I was able to finish in one sitting.
If you’re feeling blue and love art, this book is for you.
February 21, 2020
A lire dans 2 heures et tirer un maximum d'éléments importants dans la quête du bonheur.
Christophe André egal a lui-même en utilisant un langage simple qui retient le lecteur.
Je recommande vivement ce livre
Christophe André egal a lui-même en utilisant un langage simple qui retient le lecteur.
Je recommande vivement ce livre
May 9, 2017
Another beautiful book by Christophe Andre. Five star recommendation.
January 18, 2018
an exquisite book that I will purchase so I can enjoy it again and again
August 19, 2019
5 times 5 stars.
I know you, I love you, I honour you - and I'm so happy. This is what I will tell to the sea next time. Happiness regained.
I know you, I love you, I honour you - and I'm so happy. This is what I will tell to the sea next time. Happiness regained.
March 22, 2020
Christophe André the BEST!
September 30, 2020
Intéressante façon de mettre en relief le sujet du bonheur en philosophie.
September 10, 2021
Focused more on describing happiness within paintings rather than giving any ''ways to live joyfully''.
October 12, 2022
This book has stolen my heart! A combination of art and psychology! I read it several times and I believe it hasn't received the credit it truly deserves. Highly recommended!
February 16, 2024
Life changing
January 10, 2022
Acestă carte te învață să iei o pauză, să privești și să simți. Selecția picturilor pe care Chistophe Andre le prezintă este foarte personală, iar sensul acestora se poate spune, de asemenea, că este extrem de subiectiv, dar meditațiile pe marginea lor sunt ocazii pentru a demonstra că fericirea nu este o șansă, ci o inteligență, care se poate învăța și se poate antrena (antrenarea spiritului).
"Fericirea este un antidot la conștiința dureroasă și insuportabilă a naturii noastre de muritori. Avem îndatorirea de a fi fericiți, pentru că moartea există."
O carte editată și ilustrată impecabil, cu detalii ale picturilor pe care le poți analiza în liniște și la care poți reveni, în funcție de anotimpul vieții pe care îl parcurgi, fie cronologic, fie emoțional.
"Fericirea este un antidot la conștiința dureroasă și insuportabilă a naturii noastre de muritori. Avem îndatorirea de a fi fericiți, pentru că moartea există."
O carte editată și ilustrată impecabil, cu detalii ale picturilor pe care le poți analiza în liniște și la care poți reveni, în funcție de anotimpul vieții pe care îl parcurgi, fie cronologic, fie emoțional.
August 22, 2016
25 de tablouri pentru a înțelege fericirea.
25 de lecții pentru a învăța să trăiești fericit.
25 de lecții pentru a învăța să trăiești fericit.
January 30, 2017
another wonderful book
I wish I could afford a paperback of this. Christophe Andre's books are ones to cherish and return to again and again.
I wish I could afford a paperback of this. Christophe Andre's books are ones to cherish and return to again and again.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews