10 Art Books Every Artist Should Be Reading

10 Art Books Every Artist Should Be Reading

If you’re a creative type you’ll know a relaxing read can do incredible things for the soul and if you’re on the hunt for a new art book, you’ve definitely come to the right place. From beginners guides to fascinating tales about the likes of Frida Kahlo, read on for our lineup of the best art books available to buy right now.

100 Painters of Tomorrow

Authored by Kurt Beers, director of Beers Contemporary, this book is a result of a major new project and Kurt’s aim was to showcase 100 new painters that demonstrate visionary talents. A medium that is very much alive and well, the featured artists were picked out of 4300 applicants. It’s also one of the best art books ever, find out more about the project here.

The Pastel Book by Bill Creevy

A thorough guide to pastel materials and techniques all at once, The Pastel Book is perfect for those looking to develop their craft further. In the book, Bill Creevy varies between traditional soft, hard pastels and oils. He also demonstrates ways to combine mixed-media like gels for stunning results.

The Paintings That Revolutionized Art

Art history is filled with many paintings that shocked, intrigued and enraged. They also prompted many a question like, why is Durer's self-portrait so iconic? Well in this intriguing book you can ask away; each page filled with a deluge of detail. So get to grips with the masters and pick up your copy of The Paintings That Revolutionized Art.

Art: The Definitive Visual Guide

A comprehensive guide to historical art from classical Greek to Impressionism, this brand new edition of the classic bestseller showcases work from 700 artists. With mentions including Picasso, Van Gogh and Leonardo da Vinci, it’s an invaluable reference book. It also explores key facts about prominent movements; an absolute must-have for your bookshelf!

Artists: Their Lives and Works

If you love a biography then you’ll adore this book, written by the same author as above. Delving into the lives of eighty famous artists, it explores their influences, loves and rivalries. With this book, expect unconventional tales such as Caravaggio's thuggish behaviour. It also tells the moving story of Frida Kahlo who had her fair share of pain and hardship.

Leonardo da Vinci: The Graphic Work

Explore and delight in the intricate work of one of the most talented hands in history with The Graphic Work that features over 600 da Vinci reproductions. Positioning him as the quintessential Renaissance genius and a master of everything, all drawings are presented in full-page format to be pored over in every detail.

Foundations in Comic Book Art by John Paul Lowe

If you’re familiar with Netflix show The Umbrella Academy, you might know this originates from a comic book series and so our next book presents a way for artists to break into this exciting world! Written by John Paul Lowe, Foundations in Comic Book Art will help you master the tools and techniques. It also features helpful concepts like contour drawing to encourage aspiring comic book artists.

The Paintings of Paul Cezanne by John Rewald

Now if you’re looking for some really special, check out The Paintings of Paul Cezanne. A real beauty, this book is a mass of knowledge containing over 900 full-page reproductions. All are also chronologically ordered, an essential reference for art collectors. The Paintings of Paul Cézanne: A Catalogue Raisonné can be yours from Thames & Hudson.

David Hockney; A Yorkshire Sketchbook

Onto Britain’s most celebrated artist now and we have the fabulous David Hockney. His Yorkshire Sketchbook is a must have for fans with panoramic scenes of our rolling hills. Executed in watercolour and ink and across 92 pages, Hockney brings The Yorkshire Wolds to life. The book is also enjoying rave reviews with readers describing it as incredibly charming.

The Short Story of Art by Susie Hodge

Last and by no means least is The Short Story of Art by Susie Hodge. It’s a pocket guide that’s great for beginners exploring key movements, themes and techniques. It’s also a must-have for any new arty addicts because it simplifies and explains important concepts. So pick up your copy from Laurence King for a thorough understanding of art.

We hope you’ve enjoyed exploring the latest and bestselling art books. It’s certainly a collection that covers a wide scope of cultures and inspiring artistic styles. If you're considering whether to treat yourself or someone you love to a new art reference, at The Art Shop Skipton, we have all the tools to turn what is learned into a reality. Situated in the picturesque market town of Skipton, you’ll find the finest hand curated art supplies, so not why call in and browse our range to begin your own artist story.

The Short Story of Art by Susie Hodge, published by Laurence King.