My recommended reading list
The War of Art, by Steven Pressfield
From the guy who brought us “The Legend of Bagger Vance” and other classic books comes a jewel specifically written about living a creative life and breaking through creativity-killers that limit us. This book was recommended to me by an artist who paints with passion and discipline. “Read this book,” he said. “Just read it.” I did. And now I’ll tell you the same: If this book doesn’t turn you into a warrior, probably nothing will.
The Accidental Masterpiece: On the Art of Life and Vice Versa, by Michael Kimmelman
This book was a delightful and unexpected surprise to me. It is like no other book on art criticism/art appreciation I’ve ever read. It offers a glimpse at the world of art that focuses on the value of bringing art into our lives. It’s a great book to reflect upon and see how art relates in our daily lives.
Theories of Modern Art, Herschel B. Chipp
A hefty read, no doubt. Often used as a college textbook, this book holds an amazing collection of artists’ thoughts, essays and correspondences. If you are like me, you’re probably curious to see what these artists were thinking and what drove them on. This book gives a window on a broad swath of artists over time that sheds new light on the creative process.
The Letters of Vincent Van Gogh, written to his brother, Theo
A smoldering collection of thoughts on art and humanity from Vincent Van Gogh, one of the most sensitive, brilliant and troubled artists that ever lived. His life was a tremendous struggle, and his letters grant us keyhole access to a painful yet poignant insight and passion. His story of perseverance is legendary.
Ideas and Opinions, by Albert Einstein
OK, I’m betting you didn’t expect to see this book on the list. I picked it up at a second-hand store, and was pleasantly surprised by the man’s insights, especially beyond the realm of science. He constantly underscores the littleness of our grasp of the universe and gives much credence to the creative side of life that allows us access into ‘the mysterious.’
Understanding Media, by Marshall McLuhan
This book is from the guy, in the 1960s, who predicted the coming of “the global village” and noted that “the medium is the message.” Originally a college professor in Canada, he was ‘discovered’ by legendary media guy Howard Gossage, and hailed as a prophet of tomorrow. Much of what he wrote back then has come to pass, and his ideas on humanity and our use of everyday symbols to communicate our hopes, fears, dreams, opinions and anger are still as relevant today as then. For anyone who seeks insight into the evolution and mechanics of our mediums and the human will that drives them, this is the book.
Man’s Search for Meaning, by Victor Frankl
From the great heart and mind of a Holocaust survivor, Frankl’s classic book has been translated into about as many languages as are spoken. In this book, he delves into what it is that gives us hope and makes us keep on living, even under the most heinous circumstances. Based upon his time as a worker in a camp near Dachau, he explores the inner space that offers the only real freedom, choice and dignity to humanity, one untouchable by even monstrous times and circumstances. I go back and reread this marvelous book every couple of years, just to remind myself that things could be a lot worse - and that my attitude could be a lot better.
The Art Spirit, by Robert Henri
Arguably the most influential art book ever written, Henri’s The Art Spirit is a perennial favorite. His no-nonsense advice and encouragement rings as true today as the day it was written. If you only get one book about art, this might be that book.
The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis
This book was a revelation to me, primarily because one of the book’s characters is an artist who must confront his own ego and need for society’s acceptance. It’s a very good examination of the whole notion of letting go of the unnecessary things in life and focusing on the things that matter. (And admittedly, I may be a bit biased in recommending the book, as I like most everything Lewis has written.) Still, the book may make you think, and that’s never bad.
The Painted Word by Tom Wolfe