You know that feeling when a book hits exactly where you’re at and then sticks with you for years after? That’s what this list is for.
These aren’t just cute coffee table books (though some are very pretty). They’re the ones I’ve highlighted, dog-eared, gifted, and returned to again and again, whether I’m needing a creative reset, business clarity, or a color-nerd moment.
Ready to browse? Let’s go.
🎨 Books for the color loving nerds
My favorite book on all things color, hands down.
This book is a beautifully revived 19th-century system based on the colors found in nature. You'll find yourself cross-referencing lichen and bird feathers with your color swatches!
This book is a fun speed date with color. You'll learn which shades were banned, worshipped, or made from... unusual sources (erm.. mummies might make an appearance). Fast, delightful, and fascinating.
💡 Books for every creative human
A must-read for every single creative human. It’s short, punchy, and full of permission to make your weird, wonderful work.
This one is more like a call-out post (in the best way). This one’s a gut-punching reminder of what resistance looks like and how to keep making anyway.
This book is a slow, transformational process disguised as a workbook. Yes, it wants you to journal. But more than that, it’s about relearning how to trust your inner compass.
❤️🩹 Books for when you're feeling stuck
A must read for every single creative human. It’s short, punchy, and full of permission to make your weird, wonderful work.
More like a call-out post (in the best way). This one’s a gut-punching reminder of what resistance looks like and how to keep making anyway.
This book is a slow, transformational process disguised as a workbook. Yes, it’s having you do some journaling, but it’s also about learning to trust your inner compass again.
💼 Smart art biz books
If you’ve ever wondered what to charge or how to read (or write) a contract, this is your art biz bible.
A deeper dive into how to align your values, voice, and client work and exposes what the art industry doesn’t teach you.
Equal parts pep talk and practical roadmap for navigating a creative life—from building a studio routine to showing your work and managing the admin side.
While there are indeed so many solid book choices, I had to share this roundup because these are the ones I actually return to. Dog-eared, highlighted, pulled off the shelf when I’m stuck or need a spark. Some are practical, some are poetic, and some are pure delight. Think of this as a living library: one you can browse when your creativity needs a nudge or your business brain wants clarity.
