10 Must-Read Books for Every Artist: Inspiration, Techniques, and Insights

Add these titles to your library, you’ll thank me later.

Photo by RhondaK Native Florida Folk Artist on Unsplash

Whether you’re a painter, sculptor, illustrator, or any other type of artist, reading books related to your craft can provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. With that in mind, here are ten books that every artist should have in their library.

1. “The Elements of Drawing” by John Ruskin: Considered a classic in the art world, this book offers a comprehensive guide to drawing that covers everything from line, tone, and perspective to composition and color.
2. “Art & Fear: Observations On The Perils (and Rewards) of Artmaking” by David Bayles and Ted Orland: This book explores the challenges that artists face, including the fear of failure and the pressure to create, and provides practical advice on how to overcome them.
3. “The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron: This best-selling book offers a 12-week program that helps artists overcome creative blocks and develop a stronger sense of self-expression.
4. “Color: A Natural History of the Palette” by Victoria Finlay: This book explores the history and cultural significance of different colors, from the rare pigments used by ancient civilizations to the synthetic dyes of modern times.
5. “Ways of Seeing” by John Berger: This seminal work of art criticism examines how we view and interpret art, and how our perceptions are shaped by cultural and social factors.
6. “The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield: This book provides a no-nonsense approach to overcoming creative resistance and achieving artistic success.
7. “On Photography” by Susan Sontag: This book offers a thought-provoking critique of photography as a medium and explores its role in shaping our perception of the world.
8. “Steal Like an Artist” by Austin Kleon: This book encourages artists to embrace the influence of other creatives and use it as a source of inspiration for their own work.
9. “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle: While not specifically about art, this book offers a powerful message about living in the present moment and letting go of past regrets and future anxieties, which can be valuable for any artist seeking to cultivate a creative mindset.
10. “Bird by Bird” by Anne Lamott: This book offers a humorous and inspiring guide to the writing process, but its lessons on the importance of perseverance, self-acceptance, and the creative process can be applied to any artistic endeavor.

Lastly, these books are just a few examples of the vast array of resources available to artists seeking to improve their craft and deepen their understanding of the creative process. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, reading widely and continuously can be a valuable tool for expanding your artistic horizons and unlocking your full potential as a creative individual.

If you enjoyed this article, please consider a recommendation and a follow. For more articles by eMuse, please check out her blog, eMuse Creative Studio, and let us know if you’d like to be added to our newsletter.