Art’s dark underworld

After spending more than a decade in the local art world, writing a novel loosely based on her experiences was a natural next step for local Nora Novak.

“The Devil Wears Prada” meets the contemporary art world in “Art Damaged,” Novak’s debut novel, which was released last month. Novak will sign the book Saturday on Balboa Island and later this month in Costa Mesa.

“This is a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes of the contemporary art world, and it follows the life of an artist in a fictional upscale beach community in Orange County,” Novak said; she called the community Emerald Beach.

The story follows the life of Nina Valliere, a European artist who works in a contemporary art museum while dealing with the “boss from hell” and an alcoholic museum director.

Novak worked and exhibited at local galleries and museums for several years, all the while taking mental notes about her experiences — both good and bad.

“I’ve always been involved in art,” Novak said. “I am an artist myself.”

When she read “The Devil Wears Prada,” another work of fiction loosely based on real life, she knew she was on to something.

“I was very inspired by the book,” Novak said. “I thought I would write my own story that combined art and fashion and glamour.”

People already have asked Novak which scenes and characters in her book were based on real life; with a knowing smile, Novak said she doesn’t give up her sources.

“This is a novel of fiction,” she said. “The main character is a glamorous, fun-loving, worldly artist. It’s kind of a champagne cocktail story with a dark side.”

In developing her book, Novak, who said she doesn’t have a background in writing, joined local writing groups and began reading everything she could get her hands on.

“To really focus, I just had to stay home and work on it constantly,” Novak said. “The more I wrote, the more it evolved.”

Novak is now working on ideas for her next book, and debating whether to give Nina another turn on the written page.

If You Go

Who: Nora Novak

What: Signings for “Art Damaged”

When And Where: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Martha’s Bookstore, 308 Marine Ave., Balboa Island; 2 to 4 p.m. Nov. 28, Borders Books & Music, 1890 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa

Information: artdamaged.net