Summer Reading: Books About Artists

Summer is here. That means the days are hot, the drinks are refreshing, and there is a bit of a slowdown with work demands in our industry. This makes it the perfect time to recharge our creative batteries. One of the ways I do that is by reading inspiring books. Lately, I’ve been reaching for books about artists. Not exactly beach reads, but I am always fascinated to learn how artists got from point A to point B. Successful artists are all essentially entrepreneurs. What struggles did they deal with in their careers? How did they overcome them? What compels them to create?

If these themes also pique your curiosity, here are five books about artists I recommend.

Louise Nevelson: A Passionate Life by Laurie Lisle
I have long admired Louise Nevelson’s sculptures. I love their depth and composition, as well as how she plays with light.

Georgia O’Keeffe: A Life by Roxana Robinson
After touring her home in Abiquiu while visiting New Mexico, I was curious to learn more about this famous artist.

Everything She Touched: The Life of Ruth Asawa by Marilyn Chase
Another artist whose work I have long admired, I loved learning more about Asawa’s life.

Just Kids by Patti Smith
LOVED this one!! This is a touching book about Patti Smith and her friendship with fellow artist Robert Mapplethorpe. It was inspiring to see how these two individuals made their lives in this world. It’s also a snapshot of New York City in the late sixties and early seventies.

Leonardo da Vinci by Walter Isaacson
After reading Isaacson’s book on Steve Jobs, I was eager to read another of his books. This one is a bit more “heady” but still informative and enjoyable.

Most of these books have been out for a while, so they should be easy to find at your local library. Biographies not your jam?

Check out some of our other reading lists:

Five Books About Textiles

Five Books About Color

Eight Books About Creativity

Six Books About Codebreaking

Four Books About Business

Blog Posts About Inspiring Women

What have you been reading?

I am also looking for new books. What have you been reading lately that you can’t put down? DM us on social media to share your favorite books.