Whether you’re a painter, writer, musician, designer, or any type of creative, the journey of making art comes with its own mix of joy, doubt, inspiration, and frustration. Sometimes you need a spark to get started, a guide to sharpen your skills, or a bit of reassurance that you’re not alone in the ups and downs of the creative life. That’s where a great book can make all the difference.
This list brings together 20 of the best books for artists of all kinds—covering creativity, mindset, routine, design, philosophy, and personal growth. Some are practical, others are poetic, but all of them offer insights that can help you grow as an artist and connect more deeply with your work.
1. The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
This classic is a must-read for any creative battling procrastination, self-doubt, or creative blocks. Pressfield introduces the concept of “Resistance,” that inner force that tries to keep us from doing our work. Through short, punchy chapters, he offers tough love and deep wisdom on what it means to be a professional in the creative world.
2. Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon
A quick and visually engaging read, this book is all about embracing influence and remixing ideas. Kleon encourages creatives to stop trying to be original in the traditional sense and instead build on what inspires them. It’s a refreshing, motivating guide for breaking through creative barriers.
3. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
In this personal and uplifting book, Gilbert (author of Eat Pray Love) explores the mystical, emotional, and practical sides of living a creative life. She urges readers to make space for curiosity and joy in their artistic work while letting go of perfectionism and fear.
4. Show Your Work! by Austin Kleon
This companion to Steal Like an Artist teaches artists how to share their process, not just their finished products. Kleon demystifies self-promotion and offers a clear, friendly guide to building an audience by being authentic and generous.
5. Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards
Ideal for both beginners and seasoned artists, this groundbreaking book offers exercises that help retrain your brain to “see” like an artist. Edwards blends psychology and art instruction to help readers dramatically improve their drawing skills.
6. The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
More than a book—this is a 12-week program for recovering your creative self. Cameron introduces practices like Morning Pages and Artist Dates to help readers break through creative blocks and reconnect with their artistic spirit. It’s deeply introspective and highly recommended.
7. Art & Fear by David Bayles and Ted Orland
This book speaks directly to the emotional challenges artists face, such as doubt, failure, and the fear of not being good enough. It’s not about techniques, but about what it takes to make art consistently in the real world, with honesty and courage.
8. Creative Confidence by Tom Kelley and David Kelley
Written by the founders of IDEO, this book is a guide to unlocking the creativity that lies within all of us. It’s especially useful for designers, entrepreneurs, and innovators, offering practical advice and inspiring case studies.
9. The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin
Legendary music producer Rick Rubin shares his insights on the creative process in this philosophical and poetic book. It’s not a how-to, but a thoughtful meditation on the role of the artist and how to live a life rooted in creativity.
10. Ways of Seeing by John Berger
A seminal text for anyone interested in visual art, this book challenges traditional assumptions about art and how we view it. Berger explores the impact of culture, advertising, and history on the way we interpret images. It’s insightful and thought-provoking.
11. Keep Going by Austin Kleon
The third in Kleon’s trilogy, this book is about staying creative in good times and bad. It’s full of practical ideas for maintaining momentum, managing burnout, and staying grounded when the world feels chaotic or uninspiring.
12. Letters to a Young Poet by Rainer Maria Rilke
Though written to an aspiring poet, this collection of letters contains timeless wisdom for any creative soul. Rilke’s reflections on solitude, patience, and the inner life of the artist offer deep emotional resonance and comfort.
13. Make Good Art by Neil Gaiman
Based on his famous commencement speech, this short book is a rallying cry for all creators. Gaiman’s message is simple but powerful: when life is hard, weird, or uncertain—make good art. It’s inspiring, heartfelt, and a joy to read.
14. The Shape of Design by Frank Chimero
A beautifully written book that explores the deeper reasons behind design, creativity, and communication. It’s less about tools and more about how and why we create things that matter. A poetic and philosophical take on design thinking.
15. Daily Rituals by Mason Currey
This fascinating book compiles the daily routines of hundreds of famous artists, writers, and thinkers—from Picasso to Hemingway. It’s a reminder that creativity doesn’t come from inspiration alone, but from routines, quirks, and persistence.
16. Art as Therapy by Alain de Botton and John Armstrong
This book reframes art as something deeply practical—a tool for understanding ourselves and healing emotional wounds. With beautiful illustrations and deep reflections, it helps artists and viewers alike find deeper meaning in creative work.
17. The Accidental Masterpiece by Michael Kimmelman
A celebration of the unexpected joys and discoveries that come with making and experiencing art. Kimmelman explores how art can illuminate life’s biggest questions and smallest details. A thoughtful read for those who see art everywhere.
18. How to Be an Artist by Jerry Saltz
Award-winning art critic Jerry Saltz offers 63 bite-sized rules for the creative life. His advice is honest, funny, and deeply human. This book is especially helpful for visual artists who need a nudge toward action and authenticity.
19. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
While not aimed solely at artists, this book is perfect for creatives who struggle with perfectionism and fear of judgment. Manson’s brutally honest approach encourages readers to focus on what really matters and let go of trying to please everyone.
20. Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
A psychological deep dive into the state of flow—that magical, immersive feeling where time disappears and creativity thrives. This book helps artists understand how to reach and maintain that state more often in their work and life.