Libby Knott on Raising Resilient Girls, Vintage Markets & Learning to Let Go

We’re delighted to feature Libby Knott, a Sydney-based art gallery manager, mother of two, and a longtime lover of vintage treasures, shared rituals, and spontaneous moments. With warmth and honesty, Libby reflects on raising resilient girls, the joy of community, her deep connection to art, and the gentle lessons she's learned about letting go of perfection in motherhood.

Name: Libby Knott
DOB: 23 May 1971
Place of Birth: Sydney, Australia
Occupation: Art Gallery Manager

1. Did you always know you wanted to become a mother?
I don’t have strong memories of playing 'Mummy' with dolls as a child, and in my wild teens and twenties, it wasn’t a focus. But deep down, I always assumed I would have children one day.

2. What brings you joy when you’re having a bad day?
My animals. We recently adopted a gorgeous grey tabby cat, Bowie, who’s incredibly affectionate and vocal. He always lifts my mood.

3. What are your favourite mid-week dinner treats?
We have ‘Take Out Tuesdays’—takeaway or dinner out at a local spot. We love trying Japanese or Italian, especially when someone else is making the tiramisu!

4. How do you unwind after a busy week of work?
A walk in the park with our dogs, chatting with neighbours, or doing the SMH Good Weekend Quiz with friends. We value our community and make time to come together.

5. What are some items in your life you can’t live without?
My computer, our stovetop coffee pot, and my art collection. Our artworks are reminders of places, moments, and feelings—they ground me.

6. How do you grow your creativity?
While I don’t make art myself, I work closely with it. I help people connect with art and I’m constantly looking, learning, and drawing inspiration from galleries and nature.

7. Who are your role models?
My mother, who raised my sister and me alone after our dad died. Creative friends and women who forge their own paths also inspire me. And I’m endlessly grateful for my sister and female friendships.

8. What energises you?
Vintage markets! I’m a regular at Rozelle Markets and love fossicking for pre-loved treasures. It’s social, outdoors, and a great creative recharge.

9. What’s always in your shopping basket?
Dark chocolate, chia seeds, oats, apples, soft cheeses, popcorn, and lately—Remedy Kombucha as an alcohol substitute.

10. What has surprised you most about being a mama?
The nonstop nature of it. The depth of love I feel for my daughters surprised me most. I remember seeing that positive test and feeling the earth tilt. We’re so connected.

11. What are your favourite indulgences?
Billecart Champagne with friends, a visit to Mecca Cosmetics, dark chocolate, cheese plates, and reflexology foot massages followed by a pedicure. Bliss.

12. How has your working life changed since becoming a mama?
It’s been a journey. I’ve had full-time and part-time roles, but now I work with Art Money from home. It allows me to stay connected to my girls' daily lives and feel more balanced.

13. What is your morning routine?
I’m up at 6am, make a pot of coffee, shower, and try to enjoy a quiet moment before the school chaos. Mornings are a flurry of shoes, hats, and lunch boxes—one day I’ll do morning yoga, I swear!

14. What is the best mothering advice you’ve received?
‘Sleep when they sleep’ helped in those early years. But the best advice was not to pressure myself to have it all perfect. Let go, enjoy the spontaneity, and know you can’t control everything.

Libby wears Two Letters & Heart Necklace here 

Film photography: Sunday (15) and Harper (7).