Books are among the best sources of inspiration, whether you need to nurture your artistic spirit, celebrate art, or are curious to know more about its history.
Below, we’ve shared books every art lover should include on their shelves. With their lovely covers and beautiful illustrations inside, these are artworks on their own.
Art 101: From Vincent Van Gogh to Andy Warhol, Key People, Ideas, and Moments in the History of Art by Eric Grzymkowski
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Gain a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the craft through Art 101. The book is the ultimate compendium of the world’s greatest artists and their masterpieces, the field’s evolution through the years, the key people behind them, and other fun tidbits. This does away with tiresome details and gives you an engaging lesson in artistic expression.
Why Are We ‘Artists’? 100 World Art Manifestos by Jessica Lack
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If you’re digging deep into the art world, what better way than to read manifestos from 100 global artists in the last 100 years? In this anthology, we answer “Why do we make art?” and foster a deeper understanding of how the craft has changed the world and how it will continue to do so. Filled with remarkable wit and wisdom, Why Are We Artists? is an essential book for every art lover.
Taschen Basic Art Series
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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. The book covers art movements from Bauhaus to Basquiat. It includes books on Francis Bacon, Charles and Ray Eames, Antoni Gaudí, Keith Haring, Tamara de Lempicka, Salvador Dalí, Gustav Klimt, Jeff Koons, Leonardo da Vinci, Claude Monet, Georgia O’Keeffe, Frida Kahlo, Mies van der Rohe, Mark Rothko, and so much more.
Popism: The Warhol Sixties by Andy Warhol and Pat Hackett
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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 films, and the famed parties at his studio, the Factory. Written in the detached gossipy style Warhol was known for, this book is for anyone who wants an inside look into the iconic artist’s mind and the rise of the Pop phenomenon in New York City.
101 Super Cute Things To Draw by Lauren Bergstrom
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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. If you’ve ever thought of doing doodling as a hobby and learning to draw adorable things, this book is for you.
Chibi Art Class: Create Your Own Chibi Cuties by Annie Zhou
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Renowned artist Yoai has captivated millions of fans with her chibi art drawings. Now, she’s teaching 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
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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. This book illuminates a different side of Filipinos as artists.
Lugar by Augusto F. Villalon
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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. This book is a must-read for students and art lovers interested in anthropology, architectural heritage, and the Philippine heritage conservation movement.
The 30-Day Sketchbook Project by Minnie Small
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Are you feeling stuck? In a rut? Sometimes, it takes a beautiful book to show you the way. Let beloved English illustrator Minnie Small eradicate your fear of the blank page through this activity book for artists. This is filled with step-by-step projects, prompts, inspiring messages, and a glimpse into Small’s 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
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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.
Are you looking for more reads? Head over to Fully Booked Online and enjoy free shipping when you order a minimum of P799. Explore the latest bookish news features on their blog.
Disclaimer: Article used with permission from Fully Booked
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