10 books every artist must-read, then read again

I have been reading books on art and creativity since high school. I've always felt drawn to all different kinds of artists and the stories of their processes and practices.

When I started my career as a fine artist, I finally understood the immense value these books have. Their words and honesty have helped my creative mindset on days when I feel all over the place. Their insight has helped me understand my questions more clearly. Their willingness to write about their struggles and how they created solutions for those struggles has helped motivate me in my creative coaching and support of other artists.

All the books listed are excellent references; I've added a few comments about some just because those are the books that I pick up the most, but the others are still in my collection for a reason; they're fantastic!

*Let me add a caveat; I'm not getting any kickbacks from sharing these recommendations. Also, there are no affiliate links here(although not opposed to that). These are simply books I believe every artist must have in their library as a reference to go back to repeatedly.

Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

I listened to this audiobook three times before I bought the physical copy. I use my physical copy as a reference that I have underlined, highlighted, and dog-eared so much it resembles a college textbook. If I'm frank, it took me a little while to warm up to some of the concepts in this book; it's a little woo-woo. But, as I always say-I'm not anti-woo-woo; I'm woo-woo adjacent. I also think most of what we believe about our art and art careers is unrealistic, and her take on believing in ourselves as creative beings is truly magic.

Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon

Austin's books are always my go-to when I'm feeling stressed or overwhelmed about my art practice. His books are full of practical, straightforward advice on creative thinking that always helps me remember why I love creating art so much, and this book in particular. 

Creative Confidence: Unleashing the Creative Potential Within Us All by Tom Kelley

The Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It for Life by Twyla Tharp

I picked up this book about 12 years ago, and it's stayed in my collection because her take on creativity/talent resonates with my beliefs. Her focus is on building habits that reinforce your creativity. In addition, she shares creative exercises and practices that can help get you out of a rut.

Creative Block by Danielle Krysa

Art & Fear: Observations on the Perils (and Rewards) of Artmaking by David Bayles and Ted Orland

This book is excellent for all artists, especially artists who want to make their art a career. Fear is one of our biggest hurdles as human beings, but it's tough to make money from your art if you are creating from a place of scarcity and fear. This book helped me think about my worries differently.

Catching the Big Fish: Meditation, Consciousness, and Creativity by David Lynch

All About Process: The Theory and Discourse of Modern Artistic Labor by Kim Grant

The importance of process over the outcome—need I say more?

Creative Play: A Guide for the Artistic Path by Michele Venne

Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

If you’ve been in any of my classes, you know I reference this book a lot. Get it!