Whether you need to nurture your artistic spirit, celebrate art, or are curious to know more about art history, books are among the best sources of inspiration.
Here are eight art books every art enthusiast should include on their shelves:
Art 101: From Vincent Van Gogh to Andy Warhol, Key People, Ideas, and Moments in the History of Art by Eric Grzymkowski
Gain a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the art world through Art 101, the ultimate compendium of the world’s greatest artists and their masterpieces, the evolution of art through the years and the key people behind them.
Why Are We ‘Artists’? 100 World Art Manifestos by Jessica Lack
If you’re digging deep into the art world, what better way than to read manifestos from 100 artists across the globe in the last 100 years? In this anthology, not only do we get to answer “Why do we make art?” but also foster a deeper understanding of how art has changed the world and how it will continue to do so in the years to come.
Taschen Basic Art Series
Discover the life and work of the world’s most famous and iconic artists through the Taschen Basic Art Series. Each book offers a detailed summary of the artist’s life, illustrations of their work, and their historical and cultural legacy. From Bauhaus to Basquiat, the series includes books on Bacon, Eames, Gaudí, Haring, de Lempicka, Dalí, Klimt, Koons, Leonardo da Vinci, Monet, O’Keeffe, Kahlo, Mies van der Rohe, Pop Art, Rothko, Surrealism and so much more.
Popism: The Warhol Sixties by Andy Warhol and Pat Hackett
Fascinating, funny, and frank, Popism is Andy Warhol’s 1980 memoir, sweeping readers into the cultural storm of the sixties: Pop art, psychedelics, Bob Dylan, underground film, and the famed parties at Warhol’s studio, the Factory.
101 Super Cute Things To Draw by Lauren Bergstrom
Through original mash-ups, step-by-step drawing instructions, doodling exercises, and mindfulness activities, author and artist Lauren Bergstrom introduces tons of cute and quirky stuff to draw — from everyday objects, food, and nature, to animals and mythical creatures.
Chibi Art Class: Create Your Own Chibi Cuties by Annie Zhou
Renowned artist Yoai teaches artists and enthusiasts the step-by-step approach to chibi art, including creating those signature dreamy eyes, vibrant hair, colorful accessories, and lively backgrounds.
Filipino Artists in Their Studios by Pingot Zulueta
In this richly-curated coffee table book, photojournalist Pingot Zulueta and lifestyle editor Isabel de Leon gather a constellation of the finest Filipino visual artists, and capture their stories via their workspaces, illuminating a different side of Filipinos as artists.
Lugar by Augusto F. Villalon
Written by the late architect and heritage conservation champion Augusto F. Villalon, Lugar is a collection of essays that takes an inward look into Philippine architecture and how it’s interweaved into our culture, history, and identity as Filipinos.
The 30-Day Sketchbook Project by Minnie Small
Let beloved English illustrator Minnie Small eradicate your fear of the blank page through this activity book for artists, filled with step-by-step projects, prompts, inspiring messages, and a glimpse into Small’s own process, lending a greater appreciation of intuitive learning and the beauty of creative imperfection.
Everyday Art Exercises: Daily Activities to Boost Your Creativity by Jane Maday
A cross between a sketchbook and a journal, Everyday Art Exercises is filled with 100 creative prompts, activities, and coloring pages to spark your imagination and develop your drawing, painting, and doodling skills — whether you’re just starting, or looking for an artistic outlet.