Top Art Books Every Student Should Read for Creative Inspiration

Every art student needs new creative inspiration and insights to refine their technique or find ideas for new pieces. Books are still one of the most effective means of doing so. With so many art books available, we are exposed to countless works of art and find inspiration and pathways to look at art in new ways. The following article presents some top art books students should read for creative inspiration.

Why Art Books Are Essential for Students

The studio or classroom isn’t the only place where an art student learns. Good books can enable all students to expand their understanding of art and challenge their creative habits. A book is a tool, and a tool is most useful when it has a purpose. Otherwise, it might as well be a brick. Here are five reasons why books are crucial for the student of art.

• Access to techniques: Learn firsthand from some of the world’s great artists. 
• Deep knowledge of art history: Learn about the development of art movements and their influence on modern-day art.
• Creative inspiration: Explore various styles, mediums, and ideas that can spark fresh creative energy.
• Honing individual craft: Take cues from master artists to refine your methods. 
• Don’t despair of your mistakes: Learn from those before you. 

By reading them, you learn the necessary skills and succeed in provoking your imagination and improving your artistic prowess. However, finding time to read books can be challenging with busy schedules. Using expert essay services can be a great solution in this case. Outsourcing some of your assignments to professionals can free up more time for your creative pursuits. 

"Ways of Seeing" by John Berger

This book should be required reading for every art student. John Berger’s Ways of Seeing (1972) changes the paradigm and determines how we read images as part of a culture and political landscape. Berger’s text encourages the reader to see beyond the visual surface. It is a superb and short text that has been the script from which all art criticism is derived. The volume is an easily digestible inspiration for students attempting to understand the inner meaning of visual art and why we see what we see.

"The Story of Art" by E.H. Gombrich

The Story of Art (1950) by E H Gombrich is one of the most all-encompassing guides to art history. From prehistoric cave paintings to 20th-century modernist art movements, Gombrich’s book is accessible to any student of art history wanting to gain a general understanding of the subject while being inspired by the range of achievements that have been produced over the centuries. Gombrich manages to boil down complex art subjects into bite-sized morsels, which is excellent for anyone interested in art or history.

"Steal Like an Artist" by Austin Kleon

Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon is a refreshing and inspiring book for anyone looking to unlock their creativity. It encourages readers to embrace the idea that all creative work builds on what came before, making it okay to take inspiration from others as long as you make it your own. Through simple and practical advice, Kleon motivates artists, writers, and creators to find their unique voices by remixing ideas, exploring their influences, and staying curious. It's a quick, thoughtful read that reminds us creativity is a process, not perfection.

"The Artist’s Way" by Julia Cameron

The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron is another essential read for students who want to unleash their full creative potential. It is more than a book; it’s a 12-week program to help artists unlock their creativity and remove any barriers blocking their flow. In The Artist’s Way, Cameron addresses our ‘inner’ and ‘outer’ creative demons and the emotional and psychological blockages that may impede our creative process. It can benefit students experiencing self-doubt or blocks in their creative flow. The exercises in this book will help students get back in touch with their reasons for wanting to write in the first place, and they will help generate ideas much more freely and confidently than before.

"Art & Fear" by David Bayles and Ted Orland

Observations on the Perilous Life of Artists by David Bayles and Ted Orland is a book about the fears and dreads of artistic life and how to get through them. It’s a great book, as it’s funny and thoughtful and tells students that it’s normal to be stressed, frustrated, and challenged (just like them!) and okay to feel afraid. Read the review of a high-quality writing service provider to know who you can rely on when overloaded with coursework.

Find Your Creative Spark in Books

Whether you’re someone revising for art history or creativity A-levels or looking for a book to bridge a block, these reads might be the answer. From the sage advice of classic authors to the musings of modern illustrators, the worlds within are filled with ideas and knowledge. Each book listed below can catalyze your thoughts into ideas, kickstart some experimentation, or help you develop as an artist. So, pick one up next time you’re stuck for creativity, dig in, and let your ideas fly.