The best books for unleashing your creative potential

Steal Like An Artist has become a modern classic for good reason, redefining the meaning of originality while reminding us that creativity thrives on connection and reinvention.

Even before reading this book, I had already adopted many of the suggestions discussed, constantly collecting new inspirations and ideas to serve as influences for my work; however, the structure of this book solidifies what is a latent thought for many creatives.

While somewhat brief, Kleon’s perspective is refreshingly honest – it’s okay to embrace and rework the ideas that electrify us. Viewing originality as something inherent to creating can actually be a destructive tendency, boxing in artists who feel they must double-check their art before making it out of fear of stepping on someone’s toes.

The message of this book is invaluable, reminding us that inspiration is a mosaic of influences, not a lightning strike of originality. Written as if having an intimate conversation with a good friend, every page validates daily creative struggles and helps to celebrate our potential. It’s a liberating reminder that all art is, in essence, a remix – of who we are, what we love, and what we’ve experienced.

This book was introduced on the first day of art school. Then, it was reintroduced and repeated by each professor for the duration of my education. As such, it's fair to say that it's an enduring force within academic circles. 

The book touches on major points essential for any informed artist and the need for modern artists to subvert our viewers' hidden biases. It eloquently teaches artists to dive beneath the surface of a work to understand the unseen, the context, and the subtext. Ways of Seeing skillfully inspires a new lens through which to view the world and urges its readers to peel back the layers of meaning from even the most minimal artworks.

For me and so many other artists, this book was an awakening and is one that I turn back to often and am doomed to cite for eternity. It's a transformative journey that challenges and enlightens, perfect for anyone ready to dive deeper into the essence of seeing and understanding art.

Sarah Urist Green's You Are an Artist is a beacon of inspiration filled with engaging and thought-provoking assignments that push the boundaries of conventional art-making.

Each challenge in this book compels you to explore uncharted territories, urging you to experiment with novel ideas and mediums. Far more than just prompts, Urist Green guides you on a journey into the heart of contemporary art, inspiring a renaissance of thought and technique in every artist willing to embrace its teachings.

The book instantly transported me back to art school, with assignments that truly spawn productive growth. I found myself eagerly anticipating each new page, propelled Green’s warm, encouraging, yet daringly innovative approach. This book is a must-have for anyone seeking to break free from creative blocks and embark on a journey of artistic discovery.

This one may surprise you, but I assure you that Understanding Comics is an absolute gem!

McCloud has crafted an intellectual yet accessible guide that is not just a study of comics but a masterclass in communication and the art of storytelling. This book provides a rich fusion of insightful theory and practical advice, all conveyed through the very medium it discusses, making it a uniquely immersive experience. 

McCloud’s engaging style and profound understanding of the mechanics of comics didn't just educate me;  they enchanted me. His deep dives into the psychology behind why we connect with comics pair perfectly with his diegetic examples of framing, composition, and visual motivation. It’s a journey through the mechanics of comics that turns into a deeper exploration of visual expression and human perception.

Art is, in essence, a storytelling medium, making this book as invaluable for artists and writers as it is for comic enthusiasts.

One of the questions most asked by my students is, “How do you find your voice, your style, your essence.”

This title by Lisa Congdon is one that I always recommend, as it addresses the quintessential challenge every artist faces: finding and honing their unique voice. Masterfully combining personal anecdotes with practical advice, Congdon makes the journey of artistic self-discovery less daunting and more exhilarating.

Her wisdom and experience act as a gentle guide, encouraging readers to explore and embrace their unique style. Reading this book is like having a heart-to-heart with a wise friend who knows the struggles and triumphs of being an artist.

Congdon’s approach is not about quick fixes; it’s about a deep, sustained exploration of what makes your art uniquely yours. More than instructional, it's a transformative read, imbued with the kind of sincere,  heartfelt guidance that can only come from someone who's walked the path themselves.

I quote this title all the time, reminding my students to embrace their voice through practice, discipline, and a healthy amount of positive boredom.