Finding your inner artist through books
Art is everywhere around us, including in the books we read. To help find the perfect gift for the art lover in your life, or to unlock your own creativity, here are some personal favourites which might provide inspiration.
Prolific children’s author Peter H. Reynolds is probably already on your child’s bookshelf. But I think two of his picture books are as perfect for adults as they are for young readers. Ish shares the story of Ramon, a boy who loves to draw, but feels like giving up when the art he produces isn’t perfect. The Dot is about Vashti who believes she can’t draw and never will be able to. Her art teacher asks her to make a mark and she does. She starts to make many marks and she realises she might have been wrong all along. These heartfelt books aimed at younger readers, will inspire creativity and an understanding that whatever you make is wonderful, even if it’s not perfect.
Targeted at older audiences, Amber Creswell Bell’s Still Life: Contemporary Australian Painters and Australian Abstract are the perfect gift for an art lover. These books not only showcase the stunning work of numerous artists, but describe each artist’s life and work. As their names suggest, both books reference only Australian artists, however they are focused on their respective style. I’ve found them extremely useful for inspiration in senior secondary art class. They would make a perfect gift for the teen artist in your life!
Lorna Scobie’s 365 Days of series is made for anyone who needs a bit of inspiration. With enjoyable, easily achievable prompts, this series is suitable for anyone with an urge to create. From any one of the incredible options, 365 Days of Feel-good Art, 365 Days of Drawing, 365 Days of Creativity, 365 Days of Art and 365 Days of Art in Nature, Scobie encourages you to be creative for the whole year. It’s a simple daily mindfulness practice and they would be fun stocking stuffers for teens and adults alike.
