Top 16 books about art and artists
The War of Art
What is The War of Art about?
“The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield is a compelling and thought-provoking book that delves into the challenges people face in their creative and professional pursuits. Unlike authors of traditional books on creativity or self-help, Pressfield takes a unique approach by framing these challenges as a formidable and ever-present enemy: resistance.
The Artist's Way
What is The Artist's Way about?
“The Artist's Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity” by Julia Cameron teaches how to find your creative side through everyday activities. It delves into the topic of self-perception, helping you overcome limiting beliefs about creativity. If you want to bring your creative self back, this book is definitely for you.
What Are You Looking At?
What is What Are You Looking At? about?
What Are You Looking At? by Will Gompertz is an engaging guide through 150 years of modern art for those wanting to understand the progression from Impressionism to contemporary styles. This book not only challenges perceptions, but also celebrates the power of creativity and curiosity. From scandalous exhibitions to innovative breakthroughs, it reveals the surprising and sometimes strange stories behind modern art.
Seven Days in the Art World
What is Seven Days in the Art World about?
Seven Days in the Art World mixes Sarah Thornton’s investigative style with her love for art in a journey through complex modern art subcultures. This book is a thoughtful study of the social and professional circles created by pop culture and art. Thornton will take you behind the scenes, from art school to auction house, revealing hidden truths.
Michelangelo and the Pope's Ceiling
What is Michelangelo and the Pope's Ceiling about?
In Michelangelo and the Pope's Ceiling, Ross King recounts the four years during which Michelangelo worked on the monumental task of painting the Sistine Chapel ceiling. King’s well-researched narrative debunks myths associated with Michelangelo and explores his artistic genius. This book will take you into the heart of the Italian Renaissance and through the process of creating a timeless masterpiece.
Ways of Seeing
What is Ways of Seeing about?
Originally a BBC television series, Ways of Seeing explores our perception of the visual world. John Berger encourages us to consider the social and historical context when viewing art, questioning our assumptions. If you’re interested in the complexity of art and media, you’ll find this book valuable.
The Diary of Frida Kahlo
What is The Diary of Frida Kahlo about?
More than an autobiography, The Diary of Frida Kahlo is a raw and captivating self-portrait of one of the most iconic artists. This diary invites readers into the struggles of Frida’s physical disability and tumultuous relationship with Diego Rivera, as well as her powerful art. Dive into this self-portrait for a deeper understanding of a true icon.
Art and Fear
What is Art and Fear about?
If self-doubt clouds your creative journey, Art and Fear: Observations on the Perils (and Rewards) of Artmaking is a must-read for you. Bayles and Orland address common challenges like the fear of failure and perfectionism through a series of anecdotes and practical advice. This book can help you overcome artistic roadblocks and preserve your artistic vision
Leonardo da Vinci
What is Leonardo da Vinci about?
Leonardo da Vinci by Walter Isaacson provides a vibrant exploration of Leonardo’s life, celebrating his legacy and curiosity. The book engagingly connects his iconic artworks and his scientific endeavors in anatomy and engineering. If you want to get inspired by the brilliance of a true Renaissance man – this is a perfect read.
The Story of Art
What is The Story of Art about?
The Story of Art is a timeless classic when it comes to popular art books, with decades as a global bestseller. It makes complex art history concepts accessible and enjoyable for readers of various backgrounds. You’ll learn about significant Western artworks, each considered within its historical context.
The Shock of the New
What is The Shock of the New about?
Written by former New York Times art critic, The Shock of the New: Art and the Century of Change delves into the evolution of modern art. With his encyclopedic knowledge, Hughes explores cultural, political, and social forces that influenced iconic artists and their works. It’s a riveting read for art enthusiasts, that will ignite your curiosity.
Van Gogh
What is Van Gogh about?
Perhaps you have heard of Vincent van Gogh at least once in your life. Steven Naifeh and Gregory White Smith's captivating biography of this great man will present previously untapped materials from the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. The biography offers fresh insights into Van Gogh's personal and artistic journey, his romantic life, mental health issues, and mysterious death at thirty-seven.
Art as Therapy
What is Art as Therapy about?
What is art? In their book, Alain de Botton and John Armstrong introduce a fresh approach to understanding art: viewing it as a form of therapy. According to the authors, art holds solutions to common life dilemmas, like career problems or relationship struggles. By reading this book, you will learn how to unlock art's therapeutic potential.
The Philosophy of Andy Warhol (From A to B and Back Again)
What is The Philosophy of Andy Warhol (From A to B and Back Again) about?
The Philosophy of Andy Warhol is an autobiography of a fantastic artist. In it, Warhol shares anecdotes from his life, reflections on fame and success, and his upbringing in McKeesport, Pennsylvania. This autobiography explores various themes such as love, beauty, and money and provides a glimpse into Warhol's unique perspective on art and culture.
The Lives of the Artists
What is The Lives of the Artists about?
Leonardo, Raphael, and Michelangelo are well-known representatives of the Renaissance, but they are not the only ones. The Life of the Artists by Giorgio Vasari includes thirty-six of the most important artist biographies, along with helpful explanatory notes. It's not only packed with fascinating facts and entertaining anecdotes but also presents a highly influential theory of art's development during the Renaissance.
Rembrandt's Eyes
What is Rembrandt's Eyes about?
In seventeenth-century Holland, Rembrandt's masterpieces came to light. Simon Schama is the one who did meticulous research and shed light on Rembrandt's genius. This blend of biography and history not only shows Rembrandt's personal struggles, but also offers a fresh perspective on his enduring artistic legacy.
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