The 5 Greatest Art Books Of All Time

By Author: Jacob Martin
Total Articles: 8
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There is no greater way to express yourself than through art. No matter what form you use, creating art can be an immensely rewarding and cathartic experience regardless of your age or ability level. Many people shy away from creating art as they do not know where to begin, which is why it is a terrific idea to purchase artistic books. These are the top 5 artistic books of all time. Whether you are starting out, an art student or simply a lover of art; these books are sure to get your creative juices flowing:

1. Picture This: How Pictures Work – Molly Bang

Whilst some would disagree; there is a real science to art. Picture This breaks down how images and individual components tell a story which triggers emotion. This is all told through the example of Little Red Riding Hood, ensuring it is an engaging and entirely fascinating read from start to finish. You will never look at a picture the same way after reading this.

2. Art & Fear – David Bayle and Ted Orland

No matter your experience or talent level; all artists will have given up at some point and feared the task in front of them. This ...
... excellent book examines the way art gets made, the obstacles in the way and the difficulties which causes artists to throw in the towel. The authors also offer their own experiences and strategies for getting past these obstacles.

3. Anatomy: A Complete Guide for Artists – Joseph Sheppard

Anatomy is difficult to master and something that everybody has struggled with when it comes to drawing humans. This fantastic guidebook shows readers precisely how to draw the human form and does so in a simple yet incredibly effective way. Once you have mastered anatomy, it becomes easier to master many other areas of drawing and reading this book will help you to achieve this.

4. The Practice & Science of Drawing – Harold Speed

The incredible teachings of Harold Speed will help any aspiring artist to improve their form, develop new skills and improve their confidence. This book is packed with practical advice, exercises and insight which is as intriguing as it is valuable. Art books do not come as useful as The Practice & Science of Drawing.

5. Leonardo Da Vinci – The Graphic Work

Leonardo Da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man is one of the most iconic images of all-time and has inspired millions of people around the world in their artistic endeavours. This fantastic book features reproductions of 663 of his drawings, including engineering designs, anatomical studies, portraits and plenty more. This all highlights Da Vinci’s astonishing talent not only as an artist, but also as a scientist, philosopher, inventor and builder.